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THE ADOPTED SON 



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The Adopted Son 

A Play in Four Acts 



By 
Bertha Hurwitz 




1920 

The Stratford Company 

Publishers 
Boston, Massachusetts 



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Copyright 1920 

The STRATFORD CO., Publishers 

Boston, Mass. 



The Alpine Press, Boston, Mass., U. S. A. 



SEP 161920 
©CI.A576413 



I 



DEDICATED, IN MY YEAR OF MOURNING., TO THE MEMORY OF 
MY BELOVED FATHER, 

RABBI LOUIS HURWITZ, 

WHO LIVED TO SEE THIS PLAY JUST COMPLETED, BUT NOT. 

APPROVED. 



The Adopted Son 

CAST OF CHARACERS 
in order of appearance 

Roma — mistress of the house of Rome. 

Pagan — daughter of Roma. 

Judah — the adopted son; son of Palestine. 

Christian — born in the house of Palestine. 

Prejudice — son of Ignorance. 

Espania — mistress of the house of Spain. 

Don Espania — son of Espania. 

Ignorance — old hag. 

Superstition — son of Ignorance and twin brother of 

Prejudice. 
Fanaticism ) , . 

Hypocrisy ) ~~ relatlves °f Ignorance. 

Assimilation — adventurous beauty. 

La Belle France — mistress of the house of France. 

Frank — son of La Belle. 

Prussian — son of Germany. 

Columbia — mistress of the house of America. 

Yankee ^ 

Italian 

Scholar y — inmates of her house. 

Indolence 

Farmer 

Liberty ) 

Justice J — f emale characters. 



Act I 

ROME 
(Curtain rises.) 

(Dais entrance in centre. On throne at right of dais sits 
Roma, mistress of the house. Standing at her right, Pagan, 
daughter of Roma. Exits, right and left. Window at 
right. Servants at all doors and on each side of throne. 
Clamor of many voices heard without.) 

(Enter right, servant; bows.) 

Roma: What news? 

Servant: One of your messengers is returning, Mother 
Roma. It is not yet ascertained whether with success of 
your mission or not. 

Roma: Do you know which one of my messengers, and 
whence he comes? 

Servant: It is not known; there are conflicting conjec- 
tures. Some think from the house of Egypt, some from 
Assyria, and some from Palestine. 

(Enter centre, second servant; bows.) 

Roma (To second servant) : What have you to tell? 

Second Servant: It is one of your servants returning 
triumphant with much spoil; but he has sent ahead a mes- 
senger to say that to you alone will he report all. He is 
even now entering the gates. 

Roma (To both servants) : Go out to meet him and com- 
mand him to come hither without delay. (Servants bow 
and exeunt right.) 

Pagan (Running to door at right, excitedly) : Mother, 

[i] 



THE ADOPTED SON 

mother, see how he comes triumphant with chariot and 
slaves! What a large amount of spoils he brings; how 
brilliant they are and how they sparkle in the sun ! Now I 
shall have more gold and jewels to sew on my headband 
and dress. (Runs back to mother.) I can hardly wait until 
they arrive! 

Roma: Yes, Pagan, my beautiful daughter, you shall 
have gold and jewels for your adornment. To all the 
houses in the neighborhood have I sent my messengers, 
with commands to bring back all available materials, to 
destroy houses and inmates if necessary, for everything 
must belong to us. Then you, the most beautiful of all 
their children, shall rule supreme and they shall serve you, 
while the spoils shall be used to make our home still more 
beautiful, that all may envy us and recognize our power. 

(Enter warrior, right; drags by the hand youth — Judah, — 
who is dressed in torn garments, hair disheveled, dust-cov- 
ered and exhausted. Judah holds with tenacity book under 
arm.) 

Messenger (Bowing) : Worthy Mother Roma, I have 
returned successful from the errand upon which you sent 
me. Behold the booty I have brought back from the house 
across the river. 

Roma: And who is this youth you hold by the hand? 

Messenger: This is Judah, the son of Palestine (throw- 
ing him roughly at her feet.) Bow to your mistress, slave, 
for you are to serve her henceforth. 

Roma (Giving Judah but a glance) : And did you have 
great difficulty in attaining your end? 

Messenger: That I did. You will find this youth very 
obstinate. He would not realize that I was the stronger 
and that it was useless to try resistance against me. Many 
times I offered him conditions, but he would accept none. 
Many servants they had in the house, and they fought long 

[2] 



THE ADOPTED SON 

and desperately to defend it. But who can expect to oppose 
the strength of the servants of Roma? 

I was finally compelled to kill his mother, (groan from 
Judah) and completely to destroy their house. All their 
wealth I have appropriated and it is indeed immense. What 
I could not take I destroyed. The gardens and vineyards 
I cut down, and the entire estate I laid waste. 

Roma: You have done well! Go now, and have the 
valuables placed in the treasure-house. 

Messenger: In all haste I obey! (Bows, exit right.) 

Roma: So, it is but a fight for supremacy. If you do 
not rob your neighbor, your neighbor will rob you. And 
who is more fit to rule than I and my household? I must 
rule supreme! (Judah has risen during conversation and 
stands with head raised defiantly, holding book with both 
hands.) Come hither youth! Look not so defiant. You 
must make up your mind to bow to the inevitable. I do 
not intend to harm you, however. But you are in my house 
and must bow to my will. As long as you perform your 
duties as directed and act faithfully to the house, you shall 
be treated kindly. What is that book you carry? 

Judah (Changing from defiance to supplication) : Pray, 
pray, worthy Madam, do not deprive me of my book. It is 
all I have left to remind me of my poor mother. You have 
taken all ; leave me this one relic which I value above every 
thing else. 

Roma: I have no desire to take your book from you. 
You will find that I encourage study of any nature. The 
members of my household are not ignorant like your own 
neighbors. We have a love for the wise and beautiful and 
have many books in our house, too. Now, as you are doubt- 
less tired and spent, you may go into the next room and 
rest awhile. You will find there new clothes, and you may 
dress yourself in the garb of my house. 

[3] 



THE ADOPTED SON 

Come, my daughter, we will go down and look over the 
valuables. (Exeunt Roma and Pagan, centre. All servants 
follow in double file behind.) 

Judah (Left alone, comes down centre of stage, with 
head hanging. Falls on knees, and in weeping tones) : Oh, 
my mother! my poor dear mother! bleeding and dying I 
left you, perhaps never to see you again! These cruel 
marauders with their insatiable avarice, before my own 
eyes they stabbed you, and pillaged and destroyed our home, 
nor even let me staunch your wounds. I see you still be- 
fore me, mangled and bleeding, and so must I see you all the 
rest of my days. And I, the son of the first in the land, 
exiled from my home, a wanderer, given the grace of being 
a servant in the house of those who destroyed my own. And 
yet I have merited this punishment duly. Having immense 
wealth, you lavished it all on me, your only son, and gave 
me all my heart desired. I was spoiled; and, accustomed 
to have my way in everything, demanded it always. In 
open rebellion I came out against your authority and heeded 
not the advice set down for me in this book for my own 
good. And when our envious neighbors saw that there was 
strife within our house, then they knew that their oppor- 
tunity to strike was at hand. But when I saw the out- 
ward danger I forgot all petty troubles, and long I fought 
and desperately to defend you, oh my mother! But to 
no avail. My sin is great, but my punishment greater! 
(Rising) One comfort alone I have left: this little book, 
this relic, which I will keep always with me, come weal, come 
woe, that I may look through its pages as you wished me 
to. All its rules will I obey, though in a strange house, and 
my duty henceforth shall be to guard it and keep it, until 
chance may permit me to go back to the spot where I was 
born, to rebuild the house destroyed, and to replace in it 

[4] 



THE ADOPTED SON 

this sacred relic of blood, and tears. . . . (Exit left, 
weeping.) 

Pagan (Enter centre; bracelets on arms, gold band 
around waist, head-dress on hair) : Oh, what wonderful 
ornaments! (Surveying herself.) And how they become 
me! Indeed it were a wicked waste to put such beautiful 
gems on a less beautiful person, who could not do justice 
to their worth. Now on me, they not only enhance my 
beauty, but are enhanced in return by me, for lovely gems 
must have a lovely setting. But there is no one here ad- 
miring me! Where is that youth Judah? I like him better 
than most of the servants recently brought here. He looked 
refined and intelligent in spite of his tattered appearance. 
I think we shall spend many pleasant hours together, though 
I intend to keep him in his proper place. (Calls) Judah! 

Judah (Enter left; has not changed to Roman dress, but 
still wears long robe and fringes. Clothes dusted, hair 
combed, looks cleaner and fresher): What is your wish? 

Pagan : Do you not think me beautiful, Judah, with 
all these wonderful jewels? 

Judah (Aside) : My mother's jewels ! Oh, I must be 
calm ! 

Pagan : Why do you not answer me ? 

Judah : Tell me, Pagan, do you never think of anything 
but outward beauty? 

Pagan : And what is there more worthy of thought than 
beauty and power? 

Judah: Mere material beauty fades in time, but the 
beauty of a noble act lives forever. 

Pagan (Laughs) : How absurdly you talk Judah ! What 
compensation is there in being solicitous for the welfare of 
others? None whatever! While on the other hand, if we 
crave for power, and bring our neighbors to submit to our 
superior wisdom, we both gain their wealth and rule su- 

[5] 



THE ADOPTED SON 

preme. Come, look out through this door. All the houses 
that you see, both to right and to left belong to my mother. 
The inmates are all our servants and their labor is used to 
build our courts, gardens and fountains. I live sumptuously 
in a house of affluence, and enjoy life to its fullest extent 
as it was meant to be enjoyed. Those who do not acquire 
are failures, and it is due only to their inability to gain, 
and not to any lack of desire on their part. But as to 
the development of the mind, we are not as ignorant as 
you suppose. We also have many books, and great students 
among our servants. We teach of the wonders of nature; 
the sun, moon and stars; the trees, mountains and rivers; 
and all the creatures of earth and air. Now, what does your 
book teach you that is superior, and what have you bene- 
fitted by its teaching? 

Judah: My book simply teaches a different version of 
life. It tells us that we were created to contribute, not to 
receive. Life is short and that which is received is enjoyed 
only a short time, and then left after us, while we depart 
as poor as when first we came. But that which we give 
remains after us. Moreover, we have no choice in the mat- 
ter. We were created for the purpose of giving and could 
not do otherwise even should we wish. The sun, moon and 
stars were created to give light; the tree to give fruit; and 
the flower to give fragrance and beauty. (Enter centre 
Roma, unseen by Judah and Pagan. Stands listening.) 
And do you think that if the same flower be 
planted in meaner and poorer surroundings its fragrance 
and beauty is less? Because of its meaner surroundings 
its beauty seems tenfold by comparison; because of the 
lack of fragrance of other flowers, its fragrance is felt the 
stronger; and tenfold is it appreciated by those who have 
no other flowers to delight in, than if it were in a large 
lovely garden, where it would be lost among the others. 

[6] 



THE ADOPTED SON 

Therefore, when a flower is transplanted from richer soil 
to poorer, though it may droop itself somewhat, it yet 
fulfils its mission better than before. And so it is with 
mankind also. 

Roma: Well! and what is this? How long since has 
the daughter of Roma become accustomed to carry on famil- 
iar intercourse with the servants of her house? Have you 
lost your dignity, Pagan? Can you compare his state to 
yours ? You, Judah, I wish to warn against one thing only. 
That is, to know your place and keep it. Do you think that 
you are still in your home and speaking in the position of 
master? Now pay heed to what I say. I have been more 
lenient with you than with other servants brought to my 
house, because you have found favor in my eyes. I have 
granted you permission to retain your book. I notice also 
that you have not changed your garments for the newer 
and finer dress of my house as I required you to do. But 
I shall permit you to wear your own if you prefer it on 
account of its association in your memory with other days. 
These privileges do I grant you, your individuality among 
my other servants. And should you prove faithful to my 
house, I shall even appoint you to a place of trust. But you 
must always remember that you fill the position of servant, 
and must not deign to look at my daughter in the light of an 
equal or try to seduce her love. 

Judah: But I did not — 

Roma : Silence ! Roma is speaking ! A high and exalted 
place does my daughter occupy, and much higher shall she 
rise. She is young yet, but my aspirations for her are very 
great and I shall guard her from all familiarity with serv- 
ants. This, however, you must understand clearly: that 
lenient as I am to those to whom I wish to show favor, so 
cruel can I be in comparison to those who offend me. 
Therefore, I warn you, and Roma warns not twice ! Now go ! 

[7] 



THE ADOPTED SON 

(Exit Judah left, in excitement leaving his book on table.) 

Roma: And now, Pagan, come with me and I shall see 
that you are out of the way of temptation. (Exeunt centre 
JRoma with Pagan by hand.) 

(Thirty seconds perfect quiet.) 

(Enter Christian right as follows: door opens slowly, puts 
head in, peers cautiously around on all sides. Seeing no one 
present steals in and stands looking around.) 

Christian: At last I have been able to steal in unob- 
served. (Is tired and looks ivorn, just like Judah.) I am 
weary and foot-sore, but I shall now rest. As long as I 
have found shelter, I am content. But I must keep con- 
cealed or I may be driven out. (Sees Judah's book on table.) 
Why, what is this ? Judah's book ! Then he also lives here. 
He knows me and will perhaps help me. It is a very 
interesting book, but can be greatly improved. I shall 
show Judah several alterations and amendments which I 
have devised and which fully completes it. 

Judah (Enter left) : I forgot my book in my excitement. 
I hope it is still here. (Sees Christian holding same, 
snatches it away.) This is my book. 

Christian: Judah! Do you not know me? I am 
Christian. 

Judah: Christian? Oh, yes, in my own house you were 
born. How come you here, and what do you seek? 

Christian : What do I seek but shelter and rest, even as 
you yourself? I stole in here when the guards at the door 
grew negligent. When your house was destroyed, I also lost 
a shelter and have come seeking another. You will not be- 
tray me, Judah? You will not have them drive me out? 

Judah: I have no intention of betraying you, Chris- 
tian. But I have asked you several times not to deface 
my book with your alterations. You have entirely mis- 
interpreted the meaning. I have never denied you the read- 

[8] 



THE ADOPTED SON 

ing of my book, but I shall not permit its defacement. I 
have no wish to interfere with you in any way, but I shall 
brook no interference from you either. (Judah exit left.) 

Christian : He walks away from me, and I had hoped 
that he would befriend me. I am alone in this great house. 
But I shall form new friendships. I shall hide among the 
servants for awhile until I find out whether I am welcome 
or not. (Starts toward door centre, is met by Pagan coming 
in. Christian starts, frightened.) 

Pagan: Who are you? Are you a new servant? 

Christian: I am your servant, and at your command. 
Christian is my name. 

Pagan : Go, then, and don the garb of our house, for 
your own is torn and dusty. 

Christian (Aside) : Ah, that is good. In the dress of 
a servant of the house I shall pass unnoticed. (Exit Chris- 
tian left.) 

Pagan : I have stolen away from mother, and come to 
see Judah again, but he is not here. I wish to continue 
the conversation interrupted by mother; for he impressed 
me strongly. I must not let mother find us together again, 
however, for she was terribly vexed. There seems to be 
much reason to his theory. If nature ordained that all 
things should contribute to the world, then it would in- 
deed be futile to attempt to oppose nature. In regard 
to the sun, moon and stars, the trees and flowers, I can 
readily see the truth of his argument. But as concerns 
mankind, I do not feel convinced. All things were created 
for the use of mankind, even according to his own book. 
It would therefore seem that man must receive. But again, 
the thought that we live but to give, puts me in doubt once 
more. I should like to speak with him once more; he would 
perhaps explain more clearly. However, I should be loth 
to think that power and beauty should be renounced. For 

[9] 



THE ADOPTED SON 

what reason, then, does beauty exist, if not to be enjoyed? 
And I have inherent love for it. (Surveying herself admir- 
ingly.) 

(Enter left Christian, in Roman attire, carrying Judah's 
book.) 

Pagan: Ah, Christian, I see you have changed to our 
dress. It is more becoming than the long robe you wore. 
Tell me Christian, do you not think power and beauty are 
essential to happiness? 

Christian: Power — to do good, and beauty of soul, 
are indeed important to happiness ; but mere physical power 
and beauty are but empty show. 

Pagan : How similar your statement is to Judah's. Have 
you been conversing with him also? Oh, that is his book 
you are carrying, is it not? 

Christian : I have only borrowed it for a while. 

Pagan : Are you related then ? 

Christian: I was born in Judah's house, and we have 
known each other long. But we are drifting apart because 
of this very book. He will not listen to my suggestions of 
improvement and alterations. I am therefore going to write 
one more fitting the times. Judah is far behind time. 

Judah (Enter left) : So you have stolen my book again, 
Christian. Did I not tell you that I would not have it 
spoiled by your bungling? You misconstrue the meaning 
and misinterpret it to others. Now give it back to me. 
(Judah takes book away, and exits left.) 

Pagan : Why is he so angry with you ? 

Christian: He is very stubborn and foolish. He lives 
always in the past, and looks not toward the future. I 
would improve his book by altering it so that it could be 
applicable to any house and time. I would grant more 
liberty, and live more socially with all I meet. Judah 
reads it differently. He is conservative. He wears his own 

[10] 



THE ADOPTED SON 

garment, though old and worn, in preference to the newer 
garments of other houses. He will eat at no man's table, 
though he allows all to eat at his. He is very proud and 
haughty while I maintain that we should be humble and 
recognize everyone as a master whom we are willing to 
serve. That is why we are becoming estranged. 

Pagan : He is in high favor with my mother. But what 
you say is quite true. He is very conservative. You are 
more cheerful, Christian; your doctrine is easier to accept. 

Roma (Enter centre) : Well, my daughter, and who is 
this new arrival? 

Pagan : Why, mother, this is Christian, the new servant. 

Roma: And how came you into my house: I knew not 
of your arrival nor did you come in with my permission. 
Like a thief you have stolen in, and like a thief you try to 
steal my Pagan's affection. A homeless and nameless youth, 
a menial, do you dare even to address the daughter of this 
house? Begone from my sight, lest I forget compassion 
and have you driven out like a dog! 

Christian (Aside in passing Pagan) : I will see you 
again, fair Pagan. (Christian exits right.) 

Roma: Now, daughter, hearken to me. All the world 
is only a fight for supremacy. The wise gain it and know 
how to hold it, once it is theirs. All these servants are en- 
vious of your good fortune, and would feign drag you down 
to their own mean level. Then they would abuse you and 
laugh at your discomfiture. All their stories, all their 
persuasion tend only to this one purpose. My every effort 
and ambition are but for your sake. You must look to 
someone higher than a servant for a fit companion through 
life. Nor do I mean to be thwarted in my purpose by 
you, yourself. Much as I love you, I shall use discipline 
and punish you severely if I find you again intimately 
conversing with servants. Come, let us complete the inspec- 

[11] 



THE ADOPTED SON 

tion of the booty, and forget whatever unpleasantness has 
passed. (Exeunt Roma and Pagan centre.) 

Christian (Enter right) : What a narrow escape that 
was. What if she had driven me out 1 ? But I shall speak 
again to Pagan, .despite Roma's warning. She must be taught 
the true values of life, for her mother's conceptions of 
value are very erroneous. I shall exterminate all false pride 
and arrogance in her. She is young, and her mind yet im- 
pressionable. And this house must I make my home. I do 
not think that my task will be difficult, for Pagan already 
shows me favor. I wonder if she will return as I bade her. 
Ah, here she comes. — (Christian steps toivard right and 
hides.) 

Pagan (Enter centre): I do not mean to forego any- 
thing I desire, and mother's warnings do not frighten me. 
Opposition tends only to make me rebellious. But I know 
not how to choose between the three different ways that 
I am taught. I love power and beauty, but I love com- 
panionship more. Judah is of high intelligence, but he does 
not seek me. Whatever I ask him he explains to me, but I 
must seek him out. He keeps aloof and even seems to hold 
himself superior. Christian is more like my own. He wears 
our dress, eats our food, and above all sees life in a rosier 
hue. Though also preaching Judah's book, he modifies its 
severity and offers attractions. 

Christian: Pagan, do you also forbid me to talk to 
you? For if you do, I shall bow to your wish and with- 
draw, but if my presence is welcome to you, I shall brave 
all else, fearless of your mother's threats. 

Pagan: And I, Christian, like to be sought out, and 
admire the brave. 

Roma (Entering centre with two servants carrying 
chest): So, you defy Roma? And you, Pagan, think 

[12] 



THE ADOPTED SON 

that I will spare you? Well, we shall see. (To servants) 
Take him! (Servants take hold of Christian.) 

Roma : Whip him ! (Servants whip Christian many times, 
Christian cries out and struggles, growing weaker and 
weaker and falling to knees. Pagan screams attempting to 
free herself from her mother's grasp and to go to Christian. 
At last frees herself as Christian falls unconscious, and 
throws herself in front of him in time to get several blows 
on her oven body. Faints also.) 

Roma (To servants) : Enough! Come, we shall leave them 
to awake to better sense. (Exeunt centre Roma and servants.) 

(Several seconds perfect quiet.) 

(Pagan moves, groans, rises, stares blankly round a 
moment. Perceives Christian.) 

Pagan: Oh Christian! (Tears gown, and binds Chris- 
tian's head, holding it on her shoulder. Christian slowly 
recovers under her care. Groans.) 

Christian: Ah Pagan, and have you not deserted me? 

Pagan: I have suffered with you, Christian. 

Christian (Rising) : Then I can bear all. 

Pagan : Christian, you must not leave me now. If you 
go away, though it be ever so far, I shall go with you. 

Christian : You mean that you would leave your mother 
for me? 

Pagan: I shall not leave you. 

Christian: Ah Pagan, then will you dare her further, 
and wed me against her will? 

Pagan : Since I cannot gain her approval, I will wed 
you without it. 

Christian: Come, then, let us steal away before they 
return and again tear you from me. (Exeunt centre Chris- 
tian and Pagan.) 

Roma (Enter centre with servants) : Now we shall see 
if they are still defiant, and if they think that Roma's warn- 

[13] 



THE ADOPTED SON 

ings are but a jest. (Looking round.) But where are they? 
(alarmed) Oh where is my child? He has stolen her as 
revenge, (to servants) Go, quickly, and overtake them, 
and do not return without them. (Servants exeunt.) Oh my 
daughter, why did I leave you? Come back to me and I 
will forgive you everything. Oh Pagan, Pagan, where are 
you? (Walks excitedly wringing hands.) 

(Enter right, servants bringing Christian and Pagan.) 

Roma: Oh my child, they have brought you back to me. 
See how he has maltreated you, and torn your beautiful 
garments. 

Pagan : My name is no longer Pagan, mother, I have 
just wedded Christian and taken his name. Do not look 
so grieved, my mother, for I am indeed happy, as I love 
him truly. We ask your forgiveness and blessing. Will 
you not grant it, oh my mother? 

Roma : Address me not as mother, you are no longer my 
child. But I will separate you nevertheless. (To servants) 
Take them apart. (Servants drag them apart. Roma walks 
excitedly up and down room, looking from one to another.) 

Christian: And of what avail is it to separate us now? 
Can you undo that which is done? Will keeping us apart 
change her? She is already Christian, and the happier 
for it. And what do you desire more than her happiness? 
You merely thought to gain it through other means. But 
if the result attained is that which you desire, what mat- 
ters the means? Why not rejoice with her? 

Pagan : Indeed, my mother, can you not realize that 
instead of losing a daughter you have won a son, if you 
will but take him into your heart? He will help to make 
your house more powerful, for now he will be working for 
the glory of his home and mother. Will you not forgive 
us mother, and embrace Christian as your own son? 

[14] 



THE ADOPTED SON 

Roma (Relenting slowly) : But see how he has torn your 
beautiful garment. 

Pagan : With my own hands did I tear this dress. Of 
what comparison is this outward beauty to the inward hap- 
piness I now feel? Do you not understand? (Stretching 
forth her hands.) 

Roma: Oh, my child. (Embraces her.) 

Pagan : And will you not embrace Christian for my 
sake also? 

Roma: And is he not now my son? Come then to my 
heart. (Embraces Christian.) 

Christian: And I vow that you will never regret hav- 
ing taken me into your heart. From this day forth all my 
exertions shall be but to make your house the most power- 
ful of all. Its former power shall be as nought compared 
to the greatness it will yet acquire. My house will I make 
it henceforth, and all shall surely recognize the power of 
Roma as the mother of Christian. 

Roma: Then I will surely rejoice in you as a son. But 
come, daughter, and change your dress for one more pre- 
sentable. I shall not detain her long, Christian; we will re- 
turn shortly. (Exeunt Roma and Pagan.) 

Christian: At last my efforts have been crowned with 
success! But it has not yet attained its highest pinnacle. 
Pagan is mine, and Roma my mother; master of the house 
have I become, but I have much more to accomplish. I 
will establish a full set of rules for my Pagan whereby she 
may be taught the true values of life, and worthy ideals. 
A great responsibility has devolved upon my shoulders; for 
not only must I manage this house by an entirely different 
method, but I must prove by the outcome of that manage- 
ment to all the other houses in the neighborhood, that my 
method is the most worthy. Therefore, I must to work. 
(Sits down, writes for awhile, stops to think.) I need 

[15] 



THE ADOPTED SON 

Judah's book now, for although my ideas are newer, still 
they spring from the reading of the Book. (Goes to door, 
calls) Judah! 

Judah (Enter left): What do you wish? 

Christian : Have you heard of the change in this house, 
Judah, and of my present position here 1 ? 

Judah: Yes, Christian, what has that to do with me? 

Christian: Is it not proof of the superiority of my 
teaching over yours, that I have in so short a time won 
Pagan, convinced Roma, and become master of the house, 
while you, who was here long before me, still fill the position 
of servant? 

Judah : Had you convinced those that had as much 
knowledge or more than yourself, Christian, you might 
feel that you had accomplished something. But they knew 
little of real value. Is it then so commendable a thing to 
have won those by your argument, who had no better to 
offer? 

Christian: But what about your own argument? Why 
were you then unable to convince them? 

Judah: I did not seek to do so. I merely imparted 
knowledge when it was sought of me, for only by seeking 
can the truth be found. You, Christian, have exerted your- 
self in every way; you have been the seeker, rather than 
the sought. And by what method did you win them if 
not by the arguments of my own book? 

Christian: No, Judah, the ideas are my own. I first 
received knowledge from the Book, but knowledge without 
ideas to further it is of no use whatever. That is what I 
wish to discuss with you. I do not try to deny the quality 
of the knowledge of the Book, but what I wish to point out 
to you is, that you lack ideas by means of which you may put 
your knowledge into practice. Now, I have thought of a 
plan whereby we might work in conjunction, by putting 

[16] 



THE ADOPTED SON 

together your knowledge and my ideas, and teach to our 
ignorant neighbors that which will bring them out of the 
depths of darkness. Will not that be a wonderful work? 

Judah : Not with your ideas, Christian. You may think 
that your ideas are an improvement, but to my mind the 
teaching of the knowledge in your manner would be detri- 
mental rather than beneficial. Can the son teach the father 
of experience in life? This book was expounded long be- 
fore you were born. I have had it for many years, but 
have not read it through yet. You have had but a slight 
insight into it and would already improve it. Before we 
can criticise anything, we must first be familiar with that 
which we wish to criticise. Many have wished to improve 
the Book, Christian, but they have always been those who 
did not know much about it. Another youth whom I have 
met in my travels has attempted to reconstruct the writing 
of the Book. You have also met with him. His name is 
Mohammed. I need not tell you how far he has deviated 
from the true meaning of the lessons implied. You have 
yourself pronounced his work a failure, and he has done 
the same of yours. Yet you both realize the worth of the 
Book in the original. Therefore you can see that to me 
your plan is impossible. 

Christian : I can see very clearly, Judah, that you wish 
only to balk me in this wonderful work. But it shall not 
be! I would provide for the good of all, but your envy 
will not permit you to forget old grievances. You are still 
vexed and jealous that I have won Pagan, whom you had 
yourself hoped to win. I wished to make you my friend 
even though I had risen far above you. But remember that 
Pagan is mine, and I shall teach her as I see fit. And if I 
find you interfering in any way, you shall be made to realize 
that I am master in this house. 

[17] 



THE ADOPTED SON 

Judah : Your preaching is inconsistent with your prac- 
tice, Christian. You preach meekness and humbleness and 
practise despotism and threats. 

Christian : I will practise only discipline in my house. 
You may go! (Exit Judah left.) 

Christian (Walking to and fro) : He ignored me when 
he was in favor and I unfortunate, and he ignores me still 
when I am master and he a mere slave. I have condescended 
in many ways, and if he chooses to show a spirit of an- 
tagonism, he will force me to use discipline in order that 
I may attain my ideal for the good of the entire community. 

Roma (Enter centre) : What is it that disturbs you so, 
my son? 

Christian : It is Judah. He cannot bear to see me in 
favor and abuses me shamefully. Why do you allow him 
to wear his own garment which is an ugly spot in our 
house? 

Roma : If it displease you, I will order him to change it. 

Christian : And if he refuse ? 

Roma : Fear not, he will do as I demand. 

Christian : Very well then, I leave him to you. (Exit.) 

Roma : He is right. Judah is entirely too stubborn. But 
I have found him useful in the house, and do not wish to 
lose his advice and work. I must therefore treat this matter 
diplomatically. (Calls) Judah! 

Judah (Enter left): Yes, Madam? 

Roma: You have been a faithful servant, Judah, and I 
wish to reward you by raising you to the position of over- 
seer of my household and servants. 

Judah : Yes ? 

Roma: You will therefore, of course, change your dress 
to one more fitting, and lay aside your book for the worthier 
studies you will of necessity have to undertake in your new 
capacity. 

[18] 



THE ADOPTED SON 

Judah: You honor me highly, madam, but I prefer my 
lowly position with my own manner of living. 

Roma: I do not think j^ou understand. When Roma 
bestows a favor, she asks not your choice in the matter. 

Judah: Nevertheless, I decline the honor! 

Roma: You know not to whom you speak, it seems. 
You will do as I direct you. Those fringes and that robe 
you will remove. Your book you will lay aside, for I will 
tolerate no more wasting of time in that manner. More- 
over, you will recognize Christian as your master, and will 
bow to him in all due fashion. 

Judah : I will not recognize Christian as my master, 
nor bow to him. 

Roma: Now Judah, listen to me. You know that I can 
make you to bow to my will in this matter. But I would 
rather you do this of your own free will, and thereby re- 
ceive the reward I have offered you. But if you attempt to 
oppose me you will but bring disgrace and punishment upon 
yourself. Now choose, for I will w r aste no more words. 

Judah : I have already chosen ! 

Roma: Very well, then. It is decided. Come in every- 
body, and witness Roma's judgment. (Enter Christian, 
Prejudice, Pagan, servants, etc.) 

Roma: Behold how Roma punishes those who disobey 
her. Christian, what punishment shall we impose upon 
Judah for refusing to bow to you as master of this house? 
(Prejudice steps up to Christian and whispers in his ear.) 

Christian : Let him be bound securely, so that he cai» 
use neither hand nor foot, let his book be torn before Im 
eyes, and he himself beaten until he pleads for mercy and 
promises obedience. 

Roma (To servants) : Obey your master. (Servants 
take hold of Judah.) 

[19] 



THE ADOPTED SON 

Judah : Oh Christian, you are following the dictates of 
Prejudice there beside you. It is a new acquaintance you 
have formed, but you know not who he is. He is the son 
of Ignorance and the twin brother of Superstition, whom 
everyone tries to drive out of their homes, because they cor- 
rupt their children, and gloat over their infamy. He is a 
false friend also, and though with you against the weak, 
will be against you with the strong, and do you as much 
harm as he now tempts you to do to me. 

Christian : I know not what you are talking about. 
(To servants) Do as you are commanded. (Servants forc- 
ing book from Judah, which he attempts desperately to 
retain.) 

Pagan: But why must he be punished thus? He has 
done no actual harm. There are really some very interest- 
ing stories in his book and I do not see why it should be 
taken from him. 

Christian: Do you see? He has been influencing her 
in his favor! (Takes hold of Pagan and drags her angrily 
away from Judah. Roma takes her from Christian.) He 
has tried to entice her away from me. Now I shall punish 
him myself as he deserves. (Snatches whip from servant, 
begins raining blows on Judah. Judah cries out.) 

Christian : Well, why does your book not protect you ? 
Do you ask for mercy? 

Judah: What mercy can I expect at your hands? 
Christian: Do you recognize me as your master? 
1 Judah : Have you then so soon forgotten the effect of 
punishment unmerited? Did the blows you received so 
short a time ago, tend to make you docile? 

Christian: Is that your answer? (Judah nods assent.) 
Roma: Beat him into submission. (Prejudice shouts 
triumphantly.) 

[20] 



THE ADOPTED SON 

(Scene is one of total disorder. Pagan held in grip of 
Roma. Judah being beaten. Suddenly loud tumult is heard 
without. All stop. Roma runs to window.) 

Roma: Good heavens! 'Tis the barbarian Goths from 
the next house. In our feeling of security and power we 
have become negligent in the guarding of our house from 
these vile trash. To the doors and windows, all of you, 
quick ! 

(Servants release Judah who falls to floor exhausted. 
All rush to doors but are too late. Doors burst open, and 
many wildly-dressed men enter brandishing hatchets and 
clubs. — Struggles, yells, all the household of Roma bound. 
Prejudice turns against Christian and binds him. Laughs.) 

Goth (Picks up Judah) : Who are you 1 

Judah: My name is Judah. 

Goth : We shall take you to our mistress' house with us. 

Judah (Picks up book which has fallen to floor) : I know 
not if I shall fare better, I cannot fare worse. 

(Curtain falls.) 



[21] 



Act II 

SPAIN 

(Curtain rises.) 

(Mother Espania sitting in arm-chair industriously Unit- 
ing. Son, Don Espania, standing at window, right, dressed 
as Spanish gentleman with lace, etc.; sword at side.) 

Don: Mother, do come over here, and look at what is 
going on in the next house. There is such a commotion 
over that youth Judah, whom they brought to their house, 
when they returned triumphant from the house of Roma. 
I have long been watching from this window all that takes 
place there. When first they returned, they welcomed him 
as a guest and gave him a place of honor in the house. But 
they soon tired of him, and are repealing all favors. 

Espania : And have you nothing better to do, Don, than 
to stand at the window, watching your neighbors ? 

Don (Walks over; and, sitting on arm of mother's chair, 
caresses her shoulders.) : Now, mother, you must not chide 
me. I am not as idle as I appear. You know, I have the 
welfare of the house as much at heart as you have. But 
you surely do not expect me, your own son, to do the com- 
mon labor myself? That is why I have been watching 
through the window. 

Espania: I cannot see how that will improve matters 
any. 

Don: Well then, consider. This Judah is a waif and 
homeless. He has lived in the houses of Roma, Gaul, and 
Angel, and in each he has learnt their customs. 

[22] 



THE ADOPTED SON 

Espania: But Don, what has all this to do with the 
welfare of our house? 

Don : Why, everything, mother. He has no bond to tie 
him to the house he is now in, and if he finds the treatment 
he receives there unbearable, he will soon look for better 
quarters. If you should offer him a home, and an asylum 
from his troubles, would he not turn that knowledge to our 
advantage ? 

Espania : You are right, my son. If he is being abused, 
it would be an act of mercy to offer him a home, and I be- 
lieve with you, that a man of such a thrifty nature would 
well repay us for our hospitality. Go then, and extend to 
him an invitation to come here on a visit, and then we shall 
apprise him of our plan. 

Don (At window): Oh, mother, look! He is being 
driven out, nor do they allow him to take his possessions. 
See, he is walking in this direction. Shall I open the door 
and call to him, that he may not wander to some other 
house? 

Espania: Yes, yes, my son, do so by all means. We 
shall befriend him in his need. (Don Espania opens door 
wide and calls to Judali. Jiidah appears, holding book, 
stick and bundle over shoulder. Knocks timidly at open 
door.) 

Espania: Yes, yes, my boy, come in and welcome. (As 
he stumbles) Oh, you are ill! Sit down and I shall give 
you something to drink to relieve you. 

Judah (Brokenly) : You overwhelm me with your kind- 
ness. This humane treatment is so unexpected, I know not 
how to express my gratitude. Words fail me. 

Espania: Grieve not, my boj 7 , I have long watched the 
atrocities practised upon you by our neighbors and have 
sympathized with you. I wish to help you out of your 

[23] 



THE ADOPTED SON 

dilemma and offer you a home and the protection of a 
mother, if you but care to remain here. 

Judah (Rising from chair into which he has fallen ex- 
hausted) : You mean that not only do you offer me a 
refuge, but receive me as a member of your family instead 
of the stranger that I am? And that blessed word, mother, 
the sweetest word in all the world, which I have not uttered 
for so long a time — (Voice breaks, falls on knees before 
Espania, and kisses robe.) 

Don (Extending hand) : And I wish to call you brother. 

Espania (Raising him) : Come, come, and why should I 
not feel for you? Am I not myself a mother, and would I 
not wish someone to treat my son likewise should he lose 
my love and protection? 

Judah: But I have had vastly different treatment. I 
have just been driven out of Gaul's house. Angel, likewise, 
closed her doors against me and I knew not where to turn. 
I vow to you Senora Espania, by the love I bear my own 
lost mother, that I shall prove worthy of this great gift, and 
bestow upon you the same devotion, as though I were truly 
your son. 

Espania: You are indeed my son now Judah, for I 
adopt you as such. But tell us, why did Gaul drive you out ? 
(Draws forward chair, sits at right of Judah, Don sits at 
left.) 

Judah: There is little to relate. When the Goths took 
me from Roma's house I cared not what they did with me. 
I had suffered much and almost anything was preferable 
to what I was undergoing. It was therefore an unantici- 
pated surprise to find that I was treated with kindness in 
this new house, and received as a guest instead of a servant. 
They were very rough people and honored me because of 
my knowledge of fine manners from Roma's house and 
also from my own, which was once great. The mistress of 

[24] 



THE ADOPTED SON 

the house heaped favors upon me; but I should have antici- 
pated the ultimate result, for she had a son of her own and 
it was natural that he should resent the situation. At first 
he created incredible stories of my unfaithfulness, but for 
a long time she paid no heed to them. So persistent was 
he, however, that she finally changed her honors to abuse. 
I was forbidden to wear costly garments, for it vexed her 
child; I was ordered to wear a badge of disgrace that all in 
the house who saw me might know that I was Judah the 
unfavored. I endured all, for where had I to go ? Enraged 
at my perseverance, they had recourse to barbarism. Not a 
crime was committed but it was laid at my door ; not a theft, 
but it was mine; nor did my submitting to a search which 
proved nothing in my possession exonerate me. I was 
beaten and punished without cause, and finally my earnings 
were taken from me and I was driven out without pretense 
of reason. 

Espania: What wicked hearts those people must have! 

Judah : Yet we should not be angry with those that hate 
and wrong us, but rather pity them, for hatred is simply 
the child of a diseased brain. 

Don: And have you then never felt hatred for those 
who abused you so shamefully? 

Judah: Am I not human? Many times indeed, when 
my burden was heaviest, did I feel hatred and anger against 
my adversaries, and even plotted revenge. For human nature 
is so constituted that when we suffer greatly we do not stop 
to think and reason. But when the cooler moments of 
judgment come, then do we realize the wrong and futility 
of such emotions. Whenever I felt most despondent I 
turned for solace to this little book, which I have always 
with me, and in it I found comfort and hope. Then did 
my animosity turn rather to pity and I thought only of 

[25] 



THE ADOPTED SON 

showing those who had wronged me their erroneous ways 
and teaching them worthier ones. 

Espania (Rising): We shall attempt to eradicate the 
memory of these sufferings from your mind. Our house is 
not as wealthy or splendid as that of Roma, but we offer 
you our friendship and bid you regard our home as your 
own. 

Judah: You could offer me no greater wealth. And 
this house offers me greater pleasure than even the house 
of Roma. I have often looked longingly at your beautiful 
gardens and vineyards which remind me of those that were 
at my own house and are dear to me on that account. To 
work in them would afford me great delight and I shall 
help cultivate them if you will allow me, for I am familiar 
with the work. 

Espania : Indeed you may choose your manner of living. 
The house and surroundings are all open to you. You may 
go where you please, and do whatever work you like. I 
shall stand ready at all times to advise you, even as the 
mother I have promised to be to you. Don will now take 
you through the house that you may be acquainted with 
its every part, and you may yourself choose the part you 
wish to stay in, and place your belongings there. 

Judah : Words are too empty to express what I long 
to say. I shall thank you rather in deeds for your great 
kindness. 

Don : Come then, brother. (Exeunt left Don and Judah.) 

Espania: Poor boy, he has suffered much. I shall try 
to make him forget the past. 

Christian (Enter centre): Well, Senora, and what 
makes your face so radiant? 

Espania: Oh Christian, you came in so quietly, I did 
not hear you enter. 

[26] 



THE ADOPTED SON 

Christian: You know, I seldom announce my arrival. 
But why are you so strangely elated? 

Espania: Did you not yourself teach me that when we 
do a good turn to a fellow-creature we are the happier for 
it? I have just adopted a homeless boy, and I find your 
teaching true. 

Christian: Who is this boy? 

Espania : You know him well. He is Judah. He was so 
forlorn, I could not help but pity him. I know that there 
have been altercations between you, but I do not think his 
residing here need interfere with your visits. But sit down. 
(Christian and Espania seat themselves.) 

Christian: It is an estimable deed you have done, 
Espania. We should always show compassion to those who 
stand in need of our aid. 'Tis true we have had altercations, 
but I meant only to correct him. If it seems I dealt harshly 
with him, it is Prejudice's fault. He tried to influence me, 
but I am endeavoring now to banish him from my house, 
for I have found him false and dangerous. When the 
barbarians vanquished our house, Prejudice turned spy 
upon us, and many were the privations we underwent be- 
cause of his falsity. But it is not an easy task to banish 
him, for his mother Ignorance has a strong hold upon the 
people, and as long as they harbor her it is impossible to 
make them renounce Prejudice and Superstition. I know 
not which of the two does more harm, but I shall yet find 
a way of conquering them. 

Espania: I am certain you will succeed. But tell me, 
how is your mother Roma? 

Christian: Sad to relate, Senora, she has lost all her 
former greatness and only in name does she yet survive. 
In me, however, shall she live again, and I shall yet pro- 
claim her mistress of the world! 

[27] 



THE ADOPTED SON 

Espania: Tell me then, how have you survived all, and 
even brought your tormentors to become your slaves'? 

Christian: I have not fought them physically, but 
morally, and being the stronger, I have won. But I must 
on my journey (rising.) I have several other visits to make 
among our neighbors, so I will take my leave. Tell Judah, 
I bear him no malice, but hope he will yet come to see 
the right, since only in following my rules can he be truly 
happy. 

Espania: I will see you out. (Exeunt centre Espania 
and Christian.) 

Judah (Enter left) : I could not rest. I must express 
my gratitude in some definite manner. These few belong- 
ings, which I managed to save from confiscation, are but 
a small contribution, but they are all that I have. (Takes 
out vases from bundle, places them on mantles and in centre 
of table; puts fur rug on chair of Espania. Sighs.) Oh, 
how happy I would be if I could contribute ten times more ! 

Espania (Enter centre) : And are you not then happy 
in what you receive here, Judah ? 

Judah : Yes, indeed, I am very grateful for what ad- 
vantages I enjoy. But it is only in the giving that we can 
be truly happy. 

Espania: By what line of reasoning, have you come to 
that conclusion ? 

Judah : I can but point to you as a mother. When does 
the mother feel the greatest joy? Is it not when she gives 
birth to her child, though she pass through the valley of 
death to do so, and gives to the world another human being? 
And in giving, we receive. For what can be compared to 
a mother's love or her happiness through it? 

Espania: But Judah, that is only a selfish desire to live 
through our children even after death. 

[28] 



THE ADOPTED SON 

Judah: Do you think so? Then what about the man 
of talent? The artist, the author, the sculptor and the musi- 
cian. When is he the happiest? Is it not when he has 
given to the world some great masterpiece, which will re- 
main even after he departs? The artist gives beauty to 
delight the eye; the sculptor, grace; the author, ideas to 
feed the mind; and the musician, harmony to delight the 
soul. And only in the giving are they happy! They care 
not for the wealth of this world in comparison. They sacri- 
fice even many wants in order to attain that which is essen- 
tial to further their aim, — that of contributing the best 
that is in them. 

Espania: And think you then that those who care only 
to receive and amass are not happy? 

Judapi : Human nature is so selfishly constituted that 
many do not realize the truth, and think that in amassing 
they are happy. But it is a mistaken idea whereby they 
feed their vanity at the expense of their happiness. 

Espania: And should we then always think only of 
giving as long as we live? 

Judah: And when do we cease to live? Is it not when 
we have passed the age of usefulness and have no more to 
give? When the father has reared his children, and seen 
them off on their own voyage of life; when they can man 
their own boats without further assistance from him, then 
is he through with life. It is therefore only in giving, and 
in giving the best that is in us, that we can be truly happy. 

Espania: What great contribution then do you intend 
to make, since you have your ideas so well formed? 

Judah (Ecstatically) : I wish only to give the true 
knowledge of right and wrong. That one problem solved 
would solve all others. Humanity would not do wrong if 
it knew that it was detrimental to itself to do so. There is 
no intentional wrong, only a lack of knowledge of the 

[29] 



THE ADOPTED SON 

truth. And we are not competent to judge for ourselves. 
We instinctively feel in the right. It is only by seeking 
and learning, that the truth may be found. 

Espania: You talk much the same as Christian, Judah! 

Judah (Alarmed) : Christian? You are then familiar 
with him? 

Espania: He is an inmate here also, though his perma- 
nent home is in Roma's house. He speaks almost exactly 
as you do, and I do not understand why you do not agree 
better when your ideas are so much alike. 

Judah: Our ways are different! He objects to mine, 
and cannot bear to have me in the same house with him. 

Espania: I think you bear him resentment unjustly. 
He has but recently told me that he bears you no ill-will 
and hopes you will yet find happiness in seeing the right. 

Judah : You say I bear him resentment unjustly. Every 
house which has sheltered me since my wanderings have be- 
gun, I have been compelled to vacate upon his arrival ! He 
has always tried to force me to his point of view. 

Espania : He will not interfere with your mode of living 
here. I believe, Judah, that your differences arise in your 
not understanding each other. 

Don (Enter) : Ah, you are here Judah : — I am ready to go 
into the garden with you, as you wish, to see what manner 
of improvement you can suggest. 

Judah: Yes, Don, let us go out and see what we can 
accomplish. 

Espania : I will watch you through the window. (Exeunt 
Don and Judah right.) 

Espania (At window) : How intimate they have become 
in such a short space of time! And what animation Don 
is showing! I have never seen him as enthusiastic before, 
or as thrifty. Not only is he planning with Judah, but is 
actually working, though he has often stated that it is 

[30] 



THE ADOPTED SON 

beneath his station to do manual labor. (Happy laughter 
is heard from without from Don and Judah.) It does one's 
heart good to hear them laugh so light-heartedly. 

(Enter left Ignorance, opens door centre. Enter centre 
Prejudice, dressed in robe of Christian.) 

Espania (Continuing to herself) : And I can see pros- 
perity in the near future. 

Prejudice : And think you it is due to Judah's presence ? 

Espania (Turning from window): Who are you 1 ? 

Prejudice: Why I am Christian. Have you so soon 
forgotten me? 

Espania: You wear the robe of Christian, but your 
manner is different. 

Prejudice: Judah seems to have blinded your eyes to 
everything. 

Espania: What do you mean? 

Prejudice: That you have become so enamoured that 
you can no longer see the intrigue practised under your 
very eyes. 

Espania: You seem to forget that you thought it com- 
mendable of me, when I told you I had adopted him as my 
son. 

Prejudice (Smiling) : Your adopted son, eh ? Yes, you 
have adopted him, but has he reciprocated the affection 1 ? 
He has become your son, but has he accepted you as his 
mother? He wears the garment his own mother gave him, 
because he thinks only of her, and his love and devotion are 
all for her, though departed. He is working, obviously to 
make your house wealthy, but actually only that he may 
himself appropriate that wealth and extort from your 
house all that he possibly can. 

Espania: I do not believe Judah is planning anything 
so despicable, nor that he would in any way violate the 
hospitality he has received here. 

[31 J 



THE ADOPTED SON 

Prejudice: So you think he is faithful? Have you 
tried to request anything of him? Would he, in order to 
please you, adopt your dress and your ways of living? 

Espania: I feel assured that he would comply with 
any request I might make. 

Prejudice: Why do you not try? 

Espania: But what matters it to me if he likes his own 
manners better? 

Prejudice: It would be a test of his faithfulness. But 
if your faith in him be absolute, you must take all conse- 
quences. I have but warned you, and you know from past 
experience that Christian advises you only for your own 
good. But I must be going, so good-bye. (Espania turns 
to window again, meditatively.) 

Prejudice (At centre door, aside) : Ha, ha, she is al- 
ready thoughtful. Now Christian will be blamed for Pre- 
judice's act. I have accomplished two things at once. If 
my mother Ignorance had not opened the door for me, this 
would not have been possible. Ha, ha, ha. (Exit centre 
Prejudice.) 

Espania: I do not think that Judah would disobey me; 
but, nevertheless, to ascertain the truth, there would be no 
harm in testing him. I shall not command him to change 
his costume, I shall but suggest it, and if he be sincere, 
and truly anxious to please me, he will act upon my sug- 
gestion. (Enter right Don and Judah loaded with fruit.) 

Judah : Mother, we have brought the fruits of our labor 
to you. 

Don : Judah gathers faster than I, he is more accustomed 
to it. 

Judah: And we will till the land, and plough it, and 
after we have reaped the harvest we will sell the produce 
in the market and use to advantage all our resources. 

[32] 



THE ADOPTED SON 

Espania : Judah, do you not find it a hindrance to your 
work to carry always your book with you? 

Don : Yes, it is cumbersome. Why do you not lay it 
aside? 

Judah : Oh no ! I do my work the better for it. I carry 
it always, for reference and advice. 

Don : I am weary with all this work, and am going out 
in the garden to drink from the cooling fountains. (Exit 
right Don.) 

Espania: You are slow to take on our manners, Judah. 
I wish to have you my son in every respect, but you isolate 
yourself. Though you work with Don, you join not in our 
festivals, and abstain from food at our table. Why do you 
cling so tenaciously to your manners of by-gone days? 
What sanctity is there about your garment that you will 
not change it for another? 

Judah : Can you not understand that it is not the gar- 
ment that is dear to me, but the memory that it represents? 
You can not blame me for holding sacred that which is 
an emblem of loved ones lost. I cling to it as the sole mark 
of distinction that I am Palestine's son, for it is the robe 
she gave me. Yet my love for her lessens not my respect 
and devotion to you, but rather increases it. (Pause) I 
shall take this fruit inside. (Espania nods. Exit Judah 
left.) 

Espania: I wonder if Christian is right. Not only does 
Judah not act upon my suggestion but he even remonstrates. 
What course had I best pursue now? 

Don (Entering suddenly at right, tugging at throat, eyes 
wild, and excited) : Oh mother, help me — I am poisoned — 
the water — fountain — I drank — 

Espania : Oh my son ! 

Don : I am choking — some one — help me — 

[33] 



THE ADOPTED SON 

(Espania screams. Enter Judah left, servants all doors, 
among them Ignorance, Superstition, Fanaticism and Pre- 
judice. Excitement reviving Don.) 

Espania: Who has committed this unspeakable crime? 
Speak, any of you who knows aught about it! 

Superstition : The fountain was bewitched. 

Espania: How do you know? 

Superstition : I saw one spill a powder in it, and he 
had a book with him, and was canting mysterious words 
from it. 'Twas Judah there! 

Judah: It is a lie! I did not throw anything into the 
fountain! You cannot believe Superstition! 

Fanaticism: It is the truth! The fountain has been 
bewitched. He used sorcery. 

Ignorance (Croaking voice) : Yes, yes. He did ! he did ! 

Espania: Yes, yes, I should have known he was but 
playing a part. Christian was right when he told me that 
his presence here would culminate in a crime against my 
house. But I could not believe that he was of such despicable 
character. . . . He meant to poison my son and remain 
sole possessor of our lands. 

Judah : No, no ! You will not believe anything so in- 
famous of me. It is not only monstrous but incredible as 
well. You cannot believe me so odious! 

Espania: Do not dare to answer me! (To Prejudice) 
Advise me again, Christian. Tell me what punishment 
would be fit for so despicable a crime. 

Judah: That is not Christian! that is Prejudice! Ah, 
now I see whence come all these false accusations. Pre- 
judice, Superstition, Fanaticism and Ignorance. How can 
I battle against these? 

Espania: See how he raves! He thinks to blind us 
with mysterious language. 

[34] 



THE ADOPTED SON 

Prejudice: Calm yourself Espania. Do not allow him 
to excite you so. See, Don is already better. 

Espania: But I cannot be calm until I have meted out 
his punishment. I am too upset to think rationally. Sug- 
gest what I can do, Christian. 

Prejudice : There is only one course to follow, Espania. 
You know Christian tempers all punishment with judgment 
and mercy, and therefore do I even plead for Judah, and 
though he be guilty, do I ask forgiveness for him. 

Espania : What ! 

Prejudice: But only upon one condition. You see, 
Judah is not really so bad at bottom, but that book full of 
sorcery and evil has corrupted him. It would be more 
laudable to correct his ways than to punish him. Offer him 
the alternative of adopting your ways with my better book, 
which will teach him worthier manners, or leaving your 
house ignominiously, never to return again. 

Espania: I would prefer to chastise him, but if you 
think this course best, I shall follow your advice, Christian. 

Judah : Christian ! Christian ! Are you blind, entirely ? 
It is a disgrace to the name of Christian ! 

Espania: Silence! Your insolence is beyond belief. 
Here is Christian even pleading for you and you can only 
think of your vileness. You have heard his plan; it is very 
magnanimous. I shall give you a short space of time to 
consider it and choose your fate. Come, everyone, we shall 
leave him to himself to decide. 

Judah (As they leave, to Don) : Don, you know the 
truth. Have you not one word to say in my behalf? (Don 
turns away. Exeunt all but Judah. Judah bows head in hands, 
sings Eli, Eli. Pause.) What shall I do ? Oh what shall I do? 
Why should I give up my mother's dress and the advice of 
the Book because Ignorance demands it of me? It is she, 
and only she, for without her there would not be the others. 

[35] 



THE ADOPTED SON 

But, then, the alternative. To leave this house forever. 
That would be far more preferable in spite of the deep- 
rooted love I have for it. But whither? On all sides do I 
turn, and on all sides are the doors closed to me. There are 
left only the barren fields and the water, death by starvation 
or drowning. Oh, but this house was such a haven! Why 
could it not last ? The gardens, the palms, how I love them ! 
And what if I remain? How can they force me to forget 
my mother? They will beat me, but what then! I have 
been beaten before. But, no ! they will tear my book from 
me, they will destroy my dress. I will leave now before 
they return, and what if I do perish by the way? Persecu- 
tion will end ! (Starts for door centre, is met by Hypocrisy 
who wears a smiling mask.) 

Hypocrisy: But you are foolish! Why do either? 
(Judah walks backwards as Hypocrisy walks further in.) 

Judah: What new foe have I to contend against? 

Hypocrisy: I am a friend, Judah, come to give you 
friendly counsel. 

Judah (Walking backwards) : No, no, you do not im- 
press me with confidence! 

Hypocrisy: But I would show you a way out of your 
difficulties. My counsel is good if you will but listen! 

Judah : I do not like your voice, it grates upon me ! 

Hypocrisy: Mind not the voice, but the words spoken 
by the voice. I wish to help you out of your dilemma. 

Judah: There is no way out. 

Hypocrisy : Why should you leave this house ? You enjoy 
wealth and comfort here and all the advantages of a home. 

Judah : But — 

Hypocrisy: But, you wish to explain, that you will 
not change your manners for theirs. There is no need. 
Heed but my advice and I will show you how to follow 
your own pursuits while obviously you are following their 

[36] 



THE ADOPTED SON 

directions. Read your own book while they believe you are 
reading theirs; pretend, in short, to comply with all their 
requests, while you follow your own inclinations and laugh 
at them for being your dupes. 

Judah: Oh, I know you now, you are Hypocrisy; and 
under your smiling mask you are ugly as your voice is 
harsh. 

Hypocrisy : Yes, I am ! What then ? I am advising you 
but for your own good. You have already listened to me — 

Judah: But I shall listen no more. Rather than do as 
you suggest I will give up all, the home, the protection I 
have had, and will again seek my fortune elsewhere. I go — 
(Walks toward door.) 

Hypocrisy (Stepping in front of him) : Fool ! and 
where will you go? Back to the house of Roma? You 
know from past experience what to expect there! France 
has already driven you out, Angel likewise. Those are three 
directions; in the fourth is the river. Will you cast your- 
self into it and perish, or will you attempt to cross it only 
to come to barren fields where you will die less mercifully 
from hunger, cold and exhaustion? You are going! But 
whither ? 

Judah: Yes, whither? Oh, I shall be driven to distrac- 
tion ! It is true, too true ! But rather than practise the 
abominable deceit you suggest, I will perish! 

Hypocrisy: And your book with you! But now Chris- 
tian has another, the loss will not be so keen. 

Judah (Turning back) : No ! no ! With this book would 
perish all that is good. For this book I have suffered, that 
it might some day render to humanity the greatest of all 
things, a knowledge of the truth. It must not perish, and 
to sustain it I must also exist, that I may forward its 
wisdom. 

[37] 



THE ADOPTED SON 

Hypocrisy : You are right ! And why should you think 
it abominable to continue in your own manner of living 
instead of theirs? 

Judah : But to do so deceitfully ! To pretend to coincide 
with their views! To live an everlasting lie! 

Hypocrisy: You do not do so from choice, but because 
they force you to. Therefore is the crime theirs, not yours. 
You are constant and true to your ideals and uphold them 
under all disadvantageous conditions. But they are de- 
ceitful to themselves even to think that because they force 
you to renounce your ways and take theirs, they force 
you also to believe their views. You are not the first to 
take my advice. Christian also has known me. When he 
posed as a servant in the house of Roma, he did so by my 
advice. He pretended to be true to her views, while secretly 
he was following his own. And thus did he avoid persecu- 
tion. Long he deceived her and successfully, and he re- 
mained unperceived in the house until he became strong 
enough in friends and courage to defy her openly. And 
can you condemn him? Did he not rather act wisely and 
attain his end? See how she, herself, honored him after- 
wards. But would she have done so had she discovered him 
in the beginning? Had he been rebellious from the first, 
she would have entirely demolished him and his works and 
he would have come to nought ! 

Judah: And do you think I would be justified in prac- 
tising deceit on those from whom I receive protection? 

Hypocrisy: You are justified in following any course 
that is for the enlightenment of mankind, rather than fail 
in the main aim of your existence. As they have forced 
you into this attitude, on them lies the blame, if any, not 
on you. Hark ! they are returning for your decision ! They 

[38] 



THE ADOPTED SON 

must not see me, for that would betray you. Look! smile 
as I do, and answer them pleasantly. 

Judah : Oh, I cannot, it sickens me ! 

Hypocrisy: You must! 

Judah: But my face will belie my words. 

Hypocrisy: Here, put on this mask upon your face. It 
has a smiling expression and hides your own true one. 
(Judah puts it on mechanically. Hypocrisy hides behind 
curtain at door.) 

(Enter left Espania and others.) 

Espania: Have you made your decision? 

Judah : I have given the matter deep and careful con- 
sideration and have come to the conclusion that it is but 
for my own advantage to accept your plan. I have suffered 
deep remorse for having constructed barriers that separate 
me from the remainder of your household. I regret this 
sincerely and shall make atonement in following rigorously 
all rules meted out to me henceforth. 

Prejudice: But you must not only give up your book, 
but also take mine and follow all the rules conscientiously. 
Are you prepared to do that? 

Judah: I am ready to obey all commands. 

Prejudice: At last you are talking sensibly. To show 
you the magnanimity of Christian, you shall have all your 
former privileges restored, and all charges against you 
withdrawn, in the hope that you follow the teaching you 
have 3 T ourself chosen, which will prevent you from any 
repetition of these crimes. Now let me have your book ! 

Judah : I will hand it to Don, to prove my sincerity. 
(Hands book to Don.) 

Espania: Very well! And now take Christian's, and 
see that you keep it. (Judah takes book.) And now, come, 
and we will initiate you into our manners and customs. 
(Exeunt Judah and all, left, except Prejudice.) 

[39] 



THE ADOPTED SON 

Prejudice: Come out Hypocrisy! 

Hypocrisy (Enter centre) : Ha, ha, ha, am I not a good 
helpmate to you? I have given him my mask to wear and 
he will follow my advice. The mask will not remain al- 
ways on, however, and when it drops off and they per- 
ceive the real Judah beneath it, their rage in having been 
deceived will cause them to punish him with the utmost 
severity. Have I not done well, Prejudice? 

Prejudice: Hush! mention not that name so loud! 
Would you betray me? 

Hypocrisy : Ha, ha, to whom ? To Ignorance, to Super- 
stition, or Fanaticism? 

Prejudice: You are right! They are all our friends. 
And we have done well. You have laid Judah open to peril, 
while I have placed a false crime at the feet of Christian. 
Later he will be blamed for all the suffering Judah is made 
to undergo. And it will create animosity between them 
both. That is our sole aim, for we must keep them apart; 
for if there is no cause of hatred between them and they 
come to understand each other, they will destroy Ignorance 
and all her offspring. Therefore we must keep them at 
odds no matter what the means. Hush! someone is com- 
ing! Go, now, I will do the rest. You must not be seen. 
(Exit centre Hypocrisy.) 

Espania (Enter left): Christian, do you think that 
Judah will be faithful now? 

Prejudice : If he be sincere. 

Espania: You do not think he would dare deceive me? 

Prejudice: I do not know. I think it advisable to take 
all precautions against possible deception. 

Espania : You are right. I shall run no further risks. I 
shall appoint an INQUISITOR, to watch him and see that 
he be not false to his vows, and stray not in the ways of evil. 
I think, Christian, that you are the best fitted for this 

[40] 



THE ADOPTED SON 

office, inasmuch as you know all the duties set in your book 
and will be able to detect any deviation therefrom. 

Prejudice: I feel in duty bound to accept this commis- 
sion, and I shall see that it is conscientiously executed. I 
shall inquire into all his actions and report any misdemeanor 
in order that he may be kept from wrong-doing. This is a 
pious commission indeed, for it means the saving of a 
sinner. 

Espania : And woe be unto him if I find that he has de- 
ceived me. No ordinary punishment will I administer. No 
torture shall be too great for so collossal a crime. As my 
own son did I adopt him and he accepted the protection of 
my house but turned traitor against me. If he fails me 
again I shall show him no mercy. I have ordered him to 
come here re-attired and with your book, and we will set 
him his lesson. Here he comes ! 

Judah (Enter , left, dressed in Spanish dress) : I am 
ready, Senora. 

Espania: Set him his lesson, Christian, and we will 
leave him at it. You, Judah, are at liberty to go in any 
part of the house as before, except the room which you 
sanctified to the reading of your book, and the memory of 
your mother. I wish j^ou to lay aside your name Judah, 
and call yourself by the name of the teaching you have 
accepted. You shall have no more celebrations in com- 
memoration of numerous anniversaries: such as the setting 
of candles for eight days when you saved your mother from 
being conquered by unfriendly neighbors; abstaining one 
day entirely from food to mourn the vanquishing of 
your house; spreading a feast for the day when you were 
presented with your book ; and many other such observances. 
You will have plenty of duties to observe now in your new 
capacity, and these must be followed rigorously. You shall 
report to me at stated times so that I may see that you do 

[41] 



THE ADOPTED SON 

not grow lax in your duties. The closer you follow our 
rules, the happier you will be, for I shall reward all honesty, 
precisely as I shall punish all disloyalty. And now to your 
study! (Exeunt Espania and Prejudice centre.) 

Judah (Bends over book until he is certain they are out 
of hearing. Cautiously removes mask) : Oh, I am suf- 
focating under this mask! It is unbearable, but Hypocrisy 
was right. These people are idiotic! Do they not know 
that the mind cannot be forced, that the only way to alter 
it is by persuasion of argument? And even persuasion by 
argument does not always prove the truer mind, but only the 
stronger, influencing the weaker. And should I give up my 
peace, yea, life itself, because fools demand it? I would 
be a greater fool than they, were I to do so. By using 
force, they but strengthen my own conviction, inasmuch as 
it proves that they cannot use persuasion because they have 
no argument strong enough to present. Outwardly I shall 
observe their manners, while truly I shall continue to be- 
lieve as I feel convinced. Oh, if only I dared defy them, 
and do so openly ! But it is impossible, and I shall have to 
follow Hypocrisy's advice, repugnant as it may be. (Hears 
foot-steps) Someone is coming. I must be wary. (Replaces 
mask and bends over book.) 

(Enter left Don, still holding Judah's book.) 

Don : I see you are studying diligently, Judah. (Judah 
looks toward him.) And you wear a smiling expression ! 
You have changed considerably from the stubborn boy of 
a while ago. Tell me, Judah, what was it you dropped into 
the fountain from which I drank? Now you need not fear 
punishment. 

Judah: You saw me near you, Don, and that I had 
nothing in my hands. Should I have drunk from the same 
water had I myself poisoned it? 

[42] 



THE ADOPTED SON 

Don: But Superstition says that you used sorcery and 
were yourself immune from the influence. How else do 
you account for my sudden illness? 

Judah: Surely you will not believe Superstition 1 ? Is it 
not possible that a person be stricken with a malady? You 
are yourself now holding my book. Look into it, and see 
if there be anything mysterious in its writing. 

Don (Opening book) : There is much here that I do not 
understand. 

Judah (Eagerly) : But I could explain it to you, and 
you would find much wisdom in it. (Don comes toward 
him.) 

Judah (Looks cautiously round) : Ah, but I dare not. 
I have been forbidden to touch it. 

Don: Can we not find a way? 

Judah : In the cellar, where no one ever goes, we could 
hide and read the Book in secret. 

Don : But tell me Judah, why are you so persistent in 
following your own methods in the face of all opposition? 

Judah : My conviction is so strong that I can brave 
everything. I know my book holds the truth, and I am 
determined to have it expounded to the world. See, Don, 
3 t ou have read Christian's book, read mine also and judge 
for yourself. 

Don : Your perseverance impresses me. But we must 
not risk my mother's anger. Come, then to the hiding-place 
and we will study in secret together. 

Judah : I am coming ! (Exeunt Bon and Judah left.) 

Prejudice (Enter centre) : Very good ! very good in- 
deed! This is the precise moment I have been planning 
for. You have been wary, Judah, in removing your mask, 
but it will drop off soon. Meanwhile, to make my report. 
(Writes) Beneath the garb given him by.Espania, he still 
wears the traditional fringes; the key to the forbidden room 

[43] 



THE ADOPTED SON 

he wears on his heart and in the stillness of the night he 
steals in there to do homage to the memory of his mother; 
he has enticed Don to secrecy with him and hides in the 
cellar, there to read his book. Senora Espania must be led 
there to find them. Don also will be implicated, but she 
will not punish him, for he is her own son, But it is en- 
tirely different with Judah. There are no ties to bind him 
to her heart. He is an alien, and will be treated accordingly. 

Espania (Enter left) : Christian, I have just met Judah 
walking with Don. What does it signify? Do j^ou think he 
is truly repentant and trying to make reparation for his 
wrongs, or do you believe he intends harm to Don? Have 
you been making careful inquiry into all his actions'? 

Prejudice : I have kept careful and constant watch and 
have had several suspicions confirmed. Nevertheless, I 
should not wish to accuse him without positive proof. I 
think the best plan at present would be to follow them and 
ascertain without any doubt where they are going and what 
they are doing. We will then know certainties and not 
rely on suppositions. 

Espania: You are right. Come then! (Exeunt left 
Espania and Prejudice.) 

(Enter centre Ignorance. Beckons to doors centre and 
right. Enter Fanaticism, Superstition and others.) 

Ignorance: Now there will be doings. Prejudice has 
gone to fetch him. We shall soon see our greatest enemy 
demolished. His only purpose in life is my destruction, 
but he does not realize how strong I am, and how many 
accomplices I have. Ha, ha, ha, he thought it would be an 
easy task to kill Ignorance. He shall see, he shall see — 
(All whisper.) 

(Enter Prejudice, dragging Judah, Espania holding Don 
by hand.) 

[44] 



THE ADOPTED SON 

Espania: Well, we have found you reading the book 
you were forbidden to touch, and Christian's report shows 
that you have disobeyed all other orders. What have you 
to say in vindication? 

Judah : Nothing ! 

Prejudice (Snatching mask from Judah's face and pull- 
ing out fringes from under robe) : And now you stand ex- 
posed in your true light! 

Judah: And I rejoice that it so. I would rather 
stand thus, whatever the consequences, than to play for one 
more moment the miserable role I have been playing! I 
again breathe freely, for I stand with truth once more. 

Espania : You shall not breathe freely long, Judah. You 
are going to be tortured as you were never tortured before. 
I shall not have you killed outright, that would be too merci- 
ful. I cannot conceive of anything more despicable than 
the role you have been playing! 

Judah: And have you played a more commendable one? 
Have you not been even more despicable in your infamous 
INQUISITION? Is it not an unheard of thing to have 
spies set on one, while harboring that one beneatli your 
roof? If I have violated your hospitality, it was because 
you forced such severe measures upon me, but you have 
violated even the rules of humanity itself. I am prepared. 
Do with me what you will! 

Espania : You are not prepared for that which is going 
to happen to you, Judah. (To servants) Go into the next 
room, place the irons on the fire until they are red hot. 
(One servant exits right.) (To second servant) You, get a 
stout rope and make a gallows on the nearest tree. (To 
third servant) You, gather a pile of large stones, distribute 
them among all the servants, then dig a pit deep enough to 
hold him in an upright position up to his neck. (To fourth 

[45] 



THE ADOPTED SON 

servant) Tie together a pile of dry fagots and have oils 
ready to pour upon it. (Exit each servant as ordered.) 

Espania: Do you still stand with truth, Judah? 

Judah (Calmly) : Which of these deaths do you intend 
to give me? 

Espania: Which? Do you think you are going to have 
one, and have it over with? Surely you do not think that 
death is great enough punishment ! You shall undergo each 
death, one after another. You shall not be allowed to die, 
but shall be sufficiently revived each time to enable you to 
undergo the next. How does that plan sound to you? 

Judah: You will torture my body only, my soul will be 
free! In comparison to the torture of the soul I have been 
undergoing, it will be relief. 

Espania: And you will not cry out? You will not 
plead ? Suppose I were to trust you once more, you would, 
I suppose, choose the freedom of the soul, rather than the 
freedom of your body, as you so grandly express? Would 
you? If you crave my pardon, perhaps, who knows, if you 
promise obedience, I may relent. 

Judah: I am through with cringing and supplication! 
My answer is in that burning pile of fagots! See for 
yourself! (Judah rushes out door at right. Blase seen at 
window. Espania and rest rush out after him. Loud, un- 
earthly shrieking is heard. All return carrying unconscious 
Judah, showing burnt arms and legs and dress in places.) 

Prejudice: Carry him into the next room, the irons 
are hot; when he is sufficiently revived to be conscious of 
the pain, you will apply them to parts of his unburned 
flesh; after you again revive him, take him to the pit, prop 
him upright in it and let each one aim a stone at him. After 
that, if he still survives, we will think of other devices. 
(All exeunt right, carrying Judah.) 

[46] 



THE ADOPTED SON 

Christian (Enter centre, looks through window): And 
all this accursed work is done in my name! I shall be 
accused of this inhuman treatment. And there will be those 
that will believe that Christian sanctioned such infamy, and 
all because Prejudice chooses to wear my robe. And when 
he wore the robe of Judah and killed a child he convinced 
Fanaticism that Judah had committed the crime to use the 
blood for ritual. And now my name is disgraced, and my 
aim of enlightenment baffled. (Shrieks and groanings heard 
from without.) Oh, how they torture him! But Prejudice 
shall not triumph! I will go out, tear my robe from his 
shoulders, and demand retribution. (Exit Christian right. 
Discordant screams for short space. Loud authoritative 
voice.) Stop ! Cast not that stone ! This is Christian speak- 
ing, the true Christian! and I forbid — (Rest lost in in- 
distinct murmurs. Pause.) 

(Enter right Christian and servants carrying unconscious 
Judah. Servants lay Judah down and leave at imperious 
command from Christian. Christian stands looking sadly 
down, then exits right, head downcast.) 

(After pause, Judah stirs slowly, sits up. Clothes in 
shreds. Arms and legs bare and scarred.) 

Judah (Weak voice) : Oh, and I yet survive! Can I not 
die then? Must I endure more? But they have left me! 
(Totters to feet.) But if I do survive, if I do escape this 
house, if ever I leave it, I here solemnly swear never to set 
foot in it again. (Raising arms above his head.) May I 
be cursed as this house is cursed henceforth, if ever I set 
foot here again, should my very existence depend upon it. 
Even should they offer me the wealth of the world as in- 
ducement. And may this curse strike me down if ever 
temptation lead me here again. 

(Curtain falls.) 
[47] 



FRANCE 

Act III 

(Curtain rises.) 

(Large French window at left; wide door in centre, 
curtained; door at right. Judah sitting alone at table.) 

Judah : I cannot believe that this is all true ; that I have 
found peace at last. (Pacing) The horrible tortures of 
Espania's house seem like a nightmare. I wonder how I 
could have made up my mind to wear that stifling mask of 
Hypocrisy 1 ? But the measures were extreme and I was 
desperate. Yet I should have known, I, who wish to teach 
the truth to the world, that truth can not be expounded 
through living a lie. I cannot even bear to think of it, 
it moves me so. I have made an oath never to set foot in 
that accursed house again, even should my very existence 
depend upon it, and I here make another, that never again 
will I listen to the voice of Hypocrisy, but fearlessly and 
openly pursue my object, come what may. I should be 
content now I have found peace at last. But somehow I 
feel an indefinable restlessness today. I cannot concentrate 
on my work, and yet I should be content now. There is no 
longer anything to interfere with my peace of mind. And 
yet is my mind disturbed, and all because of a dream. ( Sits 
down and talks as in a trance.) A dream that has haunted 
me for many a day. It was when I was in the house of 
Prussia, when I had left that of Spain, that I first had this 
dream. I thought that I saw my mother, my own mother; 
she looked pale and wan, and she said to me, "Come back 

[48] 



THE ADOPTED SON 

to me, my son. Cease your wanderings in search of a home, 
and come back to the one where you were born. I am ill, 
but tended by the care of love will soon come back to health 
and again make for you the home that only a mother 
man make." And then I awoke, and found that it was 
only a dream. But that dream has haunted me ever since. 
It recurs to my mind sleeping and waking, and always I see 
her calling me back. Ah, if only I thought that it were 
true! that she still lives! What wealth would I not leave 
to return to her! I am harassed by doubts and hopes. 
Sometimes I wonder whether it may not be true that she 
still lives. I left her dying, but not dead. Why not go 
back and ascertain for myself? And yet this is madness! 
Have I not had enough reports that she is dead? This is 
but a dream, an empty dream ! (Bows head on hands.) 

Assimilation (Enter centre, very beautiful girl) : Al- 
ways dreaming, Judah, always living in the past! That is 
why you forfeit the present. Here I have come to seek 
you, to take you to the banquet with me. If your life is 
unhappy, Judah, you yourself make it so, for you are not 
sociable. (Places arms about his neck.) Come, now, leave 
your gloominess and come with me. 

Judah (Extricating himself from her embrace) : Is it 
you again, Assimilation? And do you still seek me though 
I have told you once that I do not care about your banquets ? 
You know I cannot eat the food at your table or drink your 
wine. I appreciate your eflorts to bring me toward a 
gayer life, but prefer to live my own. 

Assimilation (Draws a chair near Judah and seats her- 
self) : Judah, why do you isolate yourself from everyone 
else? Why do you build up barriers between yourself and 
all the other inmates of the house? You have yourself told 
me that you are following the rules of your book when you 
refuse to eat at Christian's table. But you have also told 

[49] 



THE ADOPTED SON 

me that there are but ten rules in your book that should 
be kept; that if these rules were adhered to by all, there 
would be no strife or unhappiness. Why, then, have you 
built so many smaller rules around these main rules, which 
make a breach between you and the rest instead of bringing 
you nearer, as is the intent of these main rules'? 

Judah: Listen, Assimilation, and I shall explain. If 
you built a beautiful garden of rare plants, and you wished 
to take every precaution that no intruders should enter this 
garden, would you not build a fence around the garden to 
protect it? 

Assimilation : But suppose, Judah, you are in a friendly 
neighborhood and do not fear that anyone will maliciously 
spoil the garden, what need then of the fence? 

Judah : But I must have the fence for protection against 
myself even, lest I walk sometimes in darkness and not 
seeing clearly, step into it myself. If the fence is there, 
though I do not see the rare plants I cannot step in and 
spoil them. Even nature takes these precautions, Assimila- 
tion. Shall I not profit by her example? Did you ever 
notice that all nuts have shells according to their tender- 
ness? The softer and sweeter the kernel, the harder usually 
the shell, in order the better to protect it. And around 
the shell itself is there not a burr? And this burr has 
sharp points, which hurt the hands when trying to gather 
the nuts. But is it not there to protect the shell that holds 
the kernel, in order that the kernel may retain all its 
sweetness and freshness? If by chance the shell is broken, 
do you not know what happens to the kernel? It dries up 
and withers and its sweetness is lost. To keep wholesome 
the kernel, therefore, we must not break the shell. 

Assimilation: Yes, Judah, you are right. But when 
the nut becomes ripe, does not the burr open and fall off 
by itself? 

[50] 



THE ADOPTED SON 

Judah : Yes, indeed, Assimilation, but that is when the 
fruit becomes ripe. You must not therefore try to pluck it 
off before its time, for in so doing you will but prick your 
hands, and destroy the fruit while it is yet green. This is 
my analysis of the essence and dogmas of any creed. 
True, the essence is the kernel itself while the dogmas, such 
as ceremonials, customs, and the like are but the shell. But 
the shell is necessary to protect the kernel. 

Assimilation: Perhaps you are right, Judah, though I 
differ with you on this point. I shall not press you, there- 
fore, about coming to the banquet, if you object to eating 
at Christian's table. But why do you avoid me otherwise? 
Is not my company pleasant to you? Am I not pleasant 
to look upon? And I would fain have more conversation 
with you. Come, let us go out in the garden, where the air 
is freer and we can discuss more at our ease. (Taking his 
hands and drawing him up from chair.) Am I not agree- 
able company, Judah? 

Judah: You are indeed alluring, Assimilation. Yet I 
have been so often deceived that I have not much faith left 
in friendship. But I shall go with you, as it will give me 
an opportunity to escape from depressing thoughts. And I 
crave for companionship where it does not interfere with 
my mode of living, and your company is very pleasant. 
(Both walk toward French window at left.) 

Assimilation (Gently trying to take Judah's book) : 
Surely you will not drag this along with you. It is too 
cumbersome. (As Judah protests) I do not ask you to give 
it up, only lay it aside for awhile where you can take it 
again whenever you choose. See, lay it on this shelf. It 
will be safe, and out of your way. (Smiling reassuringly.) 
There, now you see you can take my arm. I wish to be 
your friend, Judah, do not doubt me. 

[51] 



THE ADOPTED SON 

Judah (Faltering) : I will only lay it aside for awhile, 
until we return. (Assimilation places Judah's book on 
shelf and taking his arm, coaxes him slowly out. Exeunt 
Judah and Assimilation left.) 

(Enter centre Frank and Prussian.) 

Prussian: What a beautiful home you have, Frank. I 
do so enjoy a visit to your house. It is only recently that 
the people in our town have become friendly enough to be 
neighborly. Formerly each feared the other and avoided 
him. But I think this new way is to our mutual benefit. 
There are many products which your garden produces which 
are not to be had in mine, while we have many tools for 
gardening and other uses, which you lack. Do you not think 
this new method a great improvement on the other? 

Frank: Yes, indeed, Prussian. But in such a large 
town as ours, where there are so many houses and families, 
it is difficult to know everyone intimately and to realize 
who are our friends and who are not. That is why we have 
had this mistrust and segregation. 

Prussian: That is true Frank, but we are close neigh- 
bors and should be more intimate. You are welcome to my 
house any time. There is much that we may discuss to- 
gether. (Prussian walks around all this time looking at 
one thing and another. Looks out of French window at 
west, left.) What a beautiful view you have from this 
window; how lovely the water looks! 

Frank (Joining him at window): Why look, there is 
Judah, the conservative, walking in the garden with a 
damsel ! This is indeed interesting. And see, it is Assimila- 
tion! She is an enticing girl and can accomplish with her 
wiles what others could not with threats and abuse. 

Prussian: Oh, Judah is an inmate of your house now? 
He has lived in my house also. He is a queer fellow, and 
though seemingly content, yet went seeking further. 

[52] 



THE ADOPTED SON 

La Belle France (Enter centre) : Frank, my son, — 
(Stops suddenly as she sees Prussian.) Oh, you have a 
visitor ? 

Frank: Yes, mother, you remember Prussian, our 
neighbor's son! 

La Belle: Ah yes! (To Prussian) You have grown 
considerably since I saw you last, Prussian. 

Prussian : So, also, has your own son, La Belle France. 
We are all children before we grow to young manhood. 

La Belle: Yes, yes. But we do not realize the change 
when we are with the person growing; it is then gradual. 
But when we see one after a lapse of time the change im- 
presses us more forcibly. 

Prussian: So it is. Well, I will beg you to excuse me 
as I must hasten home, but you will come to my house soon, 
Frank? Au Revoir, La Belle France. 

Frank: I will, indeed, Prussian. Au Revoir! (Exit 
centre Prussian.) 

La Belle: Have you been friendly with Prussian long, 
Frank? 

Frank: Why yes, for some time, mother. I often meet 
him in the public square. Have you any objection to my 
associating with him? I thought your manner did not seem 
too well pleased. He said that there were many things that 
we might interchange, and I thought it a good idea. 

La Belle : Why, er — yes. That is, you may be friendly 
with him, but we must be wary in our friendships and not 
trust blindly. We have a very wealthy house, my son, and 
if our neighbors feel envious, it would be but natural. When 
you were very young, and perhaps you do not remember, 
there was some dispute about the boundary line of our 
estates. Come out into the garden, and I will show you the 
place and explain the nature of the dispute. (Exeunt left 
La Belle and Frank.) 

[53] 



THE ADOPTED SON 

Judah (Enter left): I wonder if I am doing wise by 
becoming intimate with Assimilation? She says she wants 
to be my friend and help me solve the problem of my lone- 
someness. But so did Hypocrisy, and where did his ad- 
vice lead me ? And yet it is not right to compare Assimila- 
tion to Hypocrisy. Hypocrisy was ugly and his advice foul, 
while Assimilation is all that is sweet and good. She does 
not advise me to act falsely, but to abide by the rules of 
my book and to be open and candid. Oh, why am I also 
assailed by doubts? Why are the homeless and friendless 
always the ones abused ? Why must they always be on their 
guard against false friends? When will the strong learn 
that their strength was given them for the purpose of 
protecting the weak, not for taking advantage; the wise 
that their wisdom was given them in order to instruct and 
guide the unwise, not to mock? Why is it that humanity 
smiles only on him upon whom Fortune smiles? Does it 
not know that he who has Fortune's smile stands not in 
need of others' while he who has not Fortune's smile stands 
doubly in need of ours? But thus are people beguiled, 
thinking that if they follow those who have Fortune's smile, 
a reflection of that smile may fall upon themselves. I am 
torn between conflicting emotions. I know not what to do. 
On one hand the memory of my mother and the hope that 
she is still alive, bid me forsake all and return to my own 
house. On the other hand, the futility of this idea, the 
craving for recognition in any house, bids me put all dreams 
aside and strive for better conditions. I have imagined 
several times that La Belle France looked favorably upon 
me. Perhaps, as Assimilation says, if I looked more cheer- 
ful, dropped my gloomy attitude, changed my attire — 
After all, the memory of my mother lies in my heart, not 
in my dress. I wish to look pleasing in Assimilation's eyes ; 
she is so full of cheer herself. Yes, I will go up and change 

[54] 



THE ADOPTED SON 

into a more elaborate dress before she arrives and I will 
go to the banquet with her also. I feel the gloom dropping 
off already. Assimilation is right. It is I who am at fault, 
not my surroundings. (Exit Judah right.) 

(Enter left La Belle and Frank.) 

La Belle: Yes, Frank, I think it is time you began 
helping me carry the burden of responsibility. That is 
why I explained to you the dissension about the boundary 
line of our estate and Prussian's. There are still weightier 
matters with which you must now be acquainted. Yes, I 
think it is best you should begin to realize the responsi- 
bilities as well as the advantages of the home. There is 
a secret I wish to unfold to you. 

Frank: And you will give me charge of the household 
affairs, mother'? I am serious enough, am I not? I am no 
longer a child. 

La Belle: Yes, Frank, you shall be entrusted with the 
care of our fortune. We have a very wealthy house, my 
son, and on that account many envious neighbors. But 
come, that I may get everything in readiness for the ban- 
quet. (Exeunt centre La Belle and Frank.) 

Judah (Enter right, is dressed in French dress elaborate 
with lace, etc.) : It is not easy to sever ties. I do not feel 
as lighthearted as I thougth I would in gayer clothes. It 
seems almost as though I were abandoning all that links me 
to my home, my traditions, everything that I have cher- 
ished. . . . Man's life is such a weary struggle. (Walks to 
French window and stands looking out to garden.) I could 
almost wish I were like the trees we were walking among. 
They have no care for the morrow; they have no problem 
of home to solve. Wherever they are by chance planted 
there is their home as long as they live. If I likewise were 
rooted as the tree, no wandering from house to house would 
I then need suffer; no fear of persecution because I have 

[55] 



THE ADOPTED SON 

no strong protection. But then what would life be? Merely 
existence! Perhaps, because of his material wants, man's 
life is more complete, for he can also contribute more. For 
a thought born in a single mind can be given to the world 
forever. My greatest desire is for a home, and the love of 
a mother, which I lack. Perhaps because of this very 
want, and my wanderings thereby I will be of greater 
service to humanity. 

Assimilation (Enter center, also elegantly dressed) : Oh, 
Judah, what an improvement. You have indeed done wisely 
in casting off your gloomy garments. I have good news 
for you. I have been speaking with La Belle France and 
she has besought me to recommend to her a trusty servant. 
She has a great honor and responsibility to confer. And I 
suggested you, Judah. 

Judah (Eagerly) : Did she approve of me, Assimilation? 

Assimilation : She has no doubt of your fidelity, Judah, 
but feared that you would not wish to be molested. She 
does not want to interfere with your mode of living, and 
if she has not conferred honor sooner on you, it is only be- 
cause you have by choice segregated yourself from the rest 
of the household. I pleaded with her in your behalf, how- 
ever, explaining how you have decided to lay aside your 
past and look toward the future. 

Judah: It is not honor I crave, but the opportunity to 
prove my devotion, and to gain recognition in the house that 
shelters me. 

Assimilation: She is considering the matter and will 
be here shortly. I came before with the intention of coax- 
ing you to change into a more cheerful-looking attire, for 
impressions count so much, but you have anticipated my 
wish. And now for that name you bear. It is full of gloom 
and your past troubles and miseries. So long as you have 
anything to link you to the sad past, you will have a 

[56] 



THE ADOPTED SON 

shadow of that past with you. Let us dispel all shadows 
and look toward the light. 

Judah: My name, the only reminder that I am Pales- 
tine's son! 

Assimilation (Buns her hands up to Judah's shoulders) : 
Say that it but a whim of mine which I wish you to in- 
dulge. You do not doubt me now? The result of my 
counsel thus far has been for your good, has it not? I like 
the sound of Dreyfus better than that of Judah. Let me 
call you so. What difference does it make? 

Judah : No, Assimilation, I do not doubt you. (Puts his 
arms around her) It is you I have been seeking for a long 
time. What I really need is a mediator between myself 
and my neighbors who do not understand me, and no one 
can better help me than you. Your presence is so cheerful 
that when I am with you I forget my sorrows. I will there- 
fore, do all you desire, dear one, and I know I shall be hap- 
pier for it. (Assimilation draws herself out of his arms 
and claps her hands joyously.) 
(Enter centre La Belle France and Frank.) 

La Belle: Oh Judah, you are waiting for me. How 
different you look in this attire. Your effort to please is 
appreciated, and emphasizes your sincerity. 

Assimilation: Dear La Belle, he has even allowed me 
to change his name, in the hope of pleasing you. I now 
call him Dreyfus. 

La Belle: That is very good. And now Dreyfus, As- 
similation has told you somewhat of my plan. What think 
you of it? Together with my own son, here, I wish to en- 
trust you with the responsibility of watching over our house. 
I will place in your hands the secret which I want guarded 
from our enemies. I have chosen j^ou because I believe you 
honest and trustworthy and I make no conditions other 
than that my trust be kept inviolate. 

[57] 



THE ADOPTED SON 

Dreyfus: I wish only to prove my fidelity by some act 
of service for you. You have been as a mother to me since 
I came to your house. You have given me the freedom of 
the house, allowed me my own manner of living unmolested, 
and I wish to prove my appreciation of your kindness. I 
have no mother, but my heart is hungry for the love of a 
mother. There is no work too great or too small, that I 
will not undertake. 

La Belle: You speak well, my son, and I believe in 
your sincerity. Go now, Assimilation, and see that all the 
preparations for the banquet tonight are in progress. It is 
there that I shall proclaim Dreyfus as my adopted son. 

Assimilation: I shall attend to everything. (Exit 
centre Assimilation.) 

La Belle : And now let me unfold my secret. Draw the 
curtains and then come and sit here beside me. (Seats her- 
self in large arm-chair. Both boys draw shades, close 
French window, and bring chairs close one on each side of 
La Belle.) 

La Belle : There is a secret panel in the wall that holds 
my dearest treasures. All the neighbors know that I pos- 
sess these treasures, and they all envy me. But no one 
knows the hiding place. Madam Prussian, next door, 
though affecting to be my friend, has always envied me my 
treasure, as has also the woman named Saxon. They would 
employ any means to rob me, and very small wonder. My 
jewels are the most precious in all the world and constitute 
my entire fortune. Were they stolen, I should be ruined. 
The care of these jewels I now wish to entrust to you, that 
you may share with me the responsibility of guarding them 
from my envious neighbors. Come, I will show them to you 
that you may appreciate their splendor and worth. (Goes 
to ivall at back, both boys following her. Touches unseen 
spring. Panel slides open, disclosing secret vault. Takes 

[58] 



THE ADOPTED SON 

out black velvet case and holding it before boys pressed 
spring. Lid flies open disclosing magnificent chain of large 
sparkling diamonds. Both boys draw a long involuntary 
breath. Oh!) 

Frank: Mother, dear, do try thein on, that we may be- 
hold their full splendor on your beautiful self. 

Dreyfus: And make them doubly dear to us for your 
sake. 

La Belle (Smilingly complies and faces boys) : Now, 
here are two keys. (To Frank) Yours, my son, unlocks 
the west door of our house. (To J ad ah) and yours unlocks 
the east door. Mine is for the front door. (Each boy hangs 
key around neck and hides it under clothes.) 

Dreyfus : For this great trust, I promise to prove worthy. 
I solemnly give you my word of honor that I will defend 
your jewels with my life if need be and protect them from 
all envious neighbors. 

Frank: And I, my mother, as becomes your own son. 

La Belle : Bless you, my children, I am certain you will. 
But now let us replace them and go prepare for tonight's 
banquet. (Takes off jewels, places them back in box, and 
presses secret spring. Panel goes back in place.) 

Dreyfus: That spring does not seem secure enough to 
me. It is too simple and might be easily detected. I be- 
lieve I could design a better one. 

La Belle : Well, try if you will. I shall go to prepare 
now, and you may draw back the curtains again. ( Exit cen- 
tre La Belle. Boys draw curtains back in silence, then Frank 
opens French window.) 

Frank: I shall go out for a while first. (Exit left 
Frank.) 

Dreyfus : This is beyond my wildest dreams ! Not only 
to be recognized and tolerated, but to be given a trust. And 

[59] 



THE ADOPTED SON 

I shall prove to her that she did not misplace that trust. 

(Enter centre Assimilation.) 

Dreyfus: Oh, Assimilation, it is to you that I owe all 
this. You it was that drew me out of my shell of gloom 
into which I had voluntarily crept. I have risen high in 
the estimation of the owner of the house and she has en- 
trusted me with great responsibilities. Come, let us go out 
in the garden for a few minutes before we go to the ban- 
quet. See, it is no longer you who seek me, but I who seek 
your company. You are so beautiful and enticing that you 
control me absolutely. 

Assimilation: I rejoice with you Dreyfus. (Dreyfus 
embraces her, exeunt left, Dreyfus and Assimilation.) 

(Enter left Frank and Prussian after a moment.) 

Prussian : Who was that who just passed us embracing 
Assimilation? 

Frank: That was Dre}^fus. 

Prussian: Dreyfus? He looked to me like Judah, ex- 
cept that he was dressed differently. 

Frank : Yes, it is Judah, but he has changed his name 
to Dreyfus since my mother adopted him. 

Prussian : Your mother has adopted him % That is 
strange. One would think that she was not content with 
the love of her own son. 

Frank : What makes you think that ? 

Prussian : Oh, I merely said it would seem so. But 
perhaps she has other reasons. Judah is very adroit and 
knows how to work his way into peoples' confidence. No 
doubt your mother has some secret she wished to confide 
to him. 

Frank : She would not confide anything to him that she 
did not first confide to me. 

[60] 



THE ADOPTED SON 

Prussian: Nevertheless, I should not wish my mother 
to give her confidence to another. I should fear that her 
affection would be transferred. 

Frank: Do you also think so? I could not myself see 
why she found it necessary to adopt him. Am I not able 
to take care of all responsiblities without his aid? Did she 
not think her secrets safe with me alone? 

Prussian : I should not let it disturb my peace of mind. 
If your mother has given him a trust, he will most likely 
betray it, and she will drive him from the house. 

Frank: Oh, no! Dreyfus will not betray a trust. 

Prussian : You seem yourself to have great confidence 
in him. 

Frank: He knows better than to endanger his safety. 
Besides, he has no motive. 

Prussian: For his safety he might take precautions. 
As for a motive, for a bribe he might do much. It is not 
his home and he is not likely to care about the loss it 
might occasion. 

Frank: He is not likely to be tempted. 

Prussian : In that case he will remain in your mother's 
eyes perfect in fidelity, and there will be no loss. 

Frank (Bitterly) : No loss of money. But my mother's 
love. Is not that a greater loss than any jewels? 

Prussian (Aside) : Jewels ! (Aloud) Yet you would 
not want to lose the jewels in preference? 

Frank: In preference? Is there any question of prefer- 
ence between riches and a mother's love? It is our entire 
wealth, yet if Dreyfus should betray his trust, and my 
mother denounce him as a traitor, I would indeed rejoice. 

Prussian : I would like to help you. I do not like to 
see this Judah rise so impudently. There is no knowing 
how far his ambition may go. 

[61] 



THE ADOPTED SON 

Frank: If I only knew of a way. But it is no use, 
Dreyfus will not betray his trust. 

Prussian: It can however be made to appear that he 
did, and your mother would then lose her confidence in him. 

Frank: How could that be done? 

Prussian: You might think I have selfish designs if I 
should tell you. 

Frank: She said she would announce him her son at 
the banquet tonight. Tell me your plan, Prussian, I will 
not think you selfish. 

Prussian: There is only one way. If the jewels were 
stolen by another and you were to swear that Judah was 
the culprit, your mother would change her plans. 

Frank: What made you say jewels'? 

Prussian: Why, you yourself said you would rather 
lose the jewels than your mother's love. 

Frank: I did not think I said that. But about your 
plan. There seems to me to be a fallacy. What about the 
person to whom the secret was betrayed. Would he not 
exonerate him and proclaim the guilty party? 

Prussian : Not if it were pre-arranged with him, if he 
were doing this to help you and agreed to say that Dreyfus 
had delivered the jewels to him. 

Frank : You mean — 

Prussian : That it is a fair bargain. For the possession 
of the jewels I will clear you of Dreyfus's presence and the 
menace of his ambition. You said you would rather lose 
them than your mother's love. Have the jewels delivered 
to me. After their loss is discovered I will swear that I 
bought them honestly of Dreyfus and by placing my ring 
and money in his desk make the evidence complete beyond 
dispute. 

Frank : What are you asking me to do ? I am the only 
one outside of Dreyfus acquainted with my mother's secret. 

[62] 



THE ADOPTED SON 

Prussian: So much the better. Your safety will be 
better assured if you yourself deliver them to me. There 
will then be no fear in your mind that through remorse or 
fright the guilty party might confess, thus reinstating Drey- 
fus and implicating you. 

Frank: No, no, that is impossible. You cannot expect 
me to betray my own mother. You do not suppose that I 
would willingly deliver to you the entire fortune of my 
house ? 

Prussian : Would you prefer to see Dreyfus gain first 
place in your mother's affection and estimation? Tonight 
at the banquet she will declare him her favorite before all. 

Frank: She shall not do it! She is my mother. I am 
the son she gave birth to, and I shall be master of my 
house. My place shall not be usurped by a stranger. He 
shall not be her favorite. I will prove him false in her eyes 
and she shall send him back to the obscurity from whence 
he came. Yes, and with degradation also, that all may be- 
lieve him unworthy and I be reinstated in my place by 
right of birth. 

Prussian: And you will deliver the jewels to me! There 
is no time to lose. I will place the money in his desk and 
we will leave your mother to discover her loss. You can 
afterwards say that you saw him having secret conferences 
with me, and when the money is found among his posses- 
sion there will be no chance of escape for him, and not the 
slightest suspicion on you. 

Frank: Yes, the plot is complete. (Walks toward the 
panel, falters, turns back.) 

Prussian: You cannot turn back now. 

Frank: I am afraid, I cannot. 

Prussian: Are you a coward? Think of all that is at 
stake. (Frank starts suddenly forward again. Prussian 
looks nervously around. Frank presses spring. Panel 

[63] 



THE ADOPTED SON 

slides open. Takes out box of jewels and holds it forth. 
Prussian eagerly holds out hands to receive it.) 

Frank (Drawing it back) : No, not yet. First place the 
ring and money in Judah's desk. Also a letter in your own 
writing declaring that it is the payment for the jewels. 
Quick ! 

Prussian : I have everything ready ! See. (Draws off 
ring. Takes roll of bills from pocket and holds letter up 
for Frank's inspection. Places everything in Dreyfus' desk.) 

Frank: Good, now your word. 

Prussian : I shall vow that I bought them from Drey- 
fus, and that he offered them to me for sale and delivered 
them in person. (Frank hands box to him, which Prussian 
hides under cloak.) 

Frank (mopping his forehead) : Now we must separate. 
We must not be seen together. Go you out by that door 
(left) and I shall go by this. (Exeunt left Prussian, cen- 
tre Frank. Enter left Assimilation and Dreyfus after slight 
pause.) 

Assimilation : I will go now and dress for the banquet, 
and will be down shortly to rejoin you. Then, what a 
triumph we shall enjoy! 

Dreyfus : I shall be waiting impatiently for you my fair 
one. (Exit centre Assimilation.) 

Dreyfus (Sighs, looks after her, then goes to desk) : But 
I have a task to complete before going to the banquet. I 
must design a safer lock on the secret panel. Let me see, 
(takes out paper from drawer in desk, and writes for several 
moments.) Ah, I have it. Another inner panel over the 
vault, identical with the top one, fitted in to appear exactly 
the same. Then, if the spring should be touched accident- 
ally the secret would not be divulged. The panel slides so 
noislessly it would not be noticed. 

[64] 



THE ADOPTED SON 

La Belize (Enter centre) : In what are you so engrossed, 
Dreyfus ? 

Dreyfus : I have drawn a diagram of a safer lock to 
the secret vault. See, this is how it works. (Traces lines on 
paper. La Belle looks on over his shoulder.) 

La Belle : Let us try it out and see how it works. (Both 
go to safe. La Belle opens, finds it empty. Screams. Drey- 
fus stops speechless.) 

Frank (Enter centre; rushing in): Mother, what is it? 

La Belle: My jewels gone! all gone! I have been 
robbed. Robbed by my enemies. 

Frank: By whom? 

La Belle : How should I know ? No one knew of the 
secret but we three. Dreyfus, I left you here the last and 
found you here when I returned. Don't you know anything 
of this disappearance? 

Dreyfus : I know nothing. I was out in the garden with 
Assimilation. But if you suspect me I am willing to be 
searched. Call in the servants that all may witness if the 
theft be found on me. 

La Belle : Let me be calm ! I must be calm ! No, Drey- 
fus I do not suspect you. This is the work of my envious 
neighbors, I but inquire if you know perchance of anything 
suspicious taking place. And you, my son, have you any 
suspicion ? 

Frank: I have seen many suspicious things take place, 
but did not wish to make any accusations until my suspi- 
cions were confirmed. 

La Belle and Dreyfus (Together) : What have you 
seen? 

Frank: Do you ask me what I have seen Dreyfus? I 
saw you meet secretly with Prussian and have a conference 
with him, during the time you say you were with Assimila- 
tion. At first you excited my curiosity, knowing as I do 

[65] 



THE ADOPTED SON 

how very little you mingle with your neighbors. Now I 
know you to have betrayed the house that gave you shelter 
and protection. 

Dreyfus: It is a lie! I did not even see Prussian! I 
know not what private reasons you have to lie thus about 
me, but it will not serve j^our purpose. 

La Belle (Sternly) : What do you mean to infer, Drey- 
fus? 

Dreyfus : He would not thus falsely accuse me unless he 
wished to evade suspicion on himself. I was with Assimila- 
tion all the time, and she will corroborate my statement 

Assimilation (Enter centre in ball-dress) : What is it, 
Dreyfus ? 

Dreyfus: There she is, Assimilation — 

La Belle : Dreyfus, I will speak to her. Assimilation, a 
great calamity has befallen me. Answer me truly all I ask 
you, for upon the veracity of your answers may depend the 
solution of a mystery and the conviction of the guilty party. 

Assimilation : I will answer truthfully all that you ask. 

La Belle: When you joined Dreyfus, was he alone? 

Assimilation : I came in just as Frank was leaving by 
the garden, and Dreyfus was alone. 

La Belle: Then what did you do? 

Assimilation : We both went out into the garden. We 
were out quite awhile and when we returned I left him 
here while I went to dress for the banquet. 

La Belle : Did you meet anyone while out in the garden ? 
Did Dreyfus speak to anyone? 

Assimilation : No, we took the side paths, that are not 
much frequented. 

La Belle: But you left him here alone when you went 
to dress? 

Assimilation : Yes. 

[66] 



THE ADOPTED SON 

La Belle: That is enough. There was time in the in- 
terim for him to see someone. 

Dreyfus: But I did not. I was occupied in drawing 
this diagram until you yourself came back and found me 
thus. 

La Belle: I am making no accusation. I wish to be 
entirely fair. The greatest consideration is the recovery of 
the jewels and the other the punishment of the culprit. I 
but wish to sift this matter to the bottom, and I shall spare 
no one. I shall not judge by small evidence, I must have 
proof, and I shall find it. Nor are you exempt from suspi- 
cion, Frank. The secret was known only to us three and 
until this matter is solved, you are both jDrisoners. (Rings 
bell violently. Enter all servants.) There has been a theft 
in this house and I wish every room in this house searched, 
including Frank's and Dreyfus's, and all papers brought 
to me here. — Go ! (Exeunt servants.) 

Frank: Mother, why do you submit me to this humilia- 
tion? They will find nothing in my possession, but by sub- 
jecting me to a search you have admitted to your household 
that you suspect me, your own son, equally with any ordi- 
nary thief. As though I could have any motive in robbing 
myself! Do I not suffer enough by loss, without suffering 
humiliation also? 

La Belle : I do not suspect you, my son. I have no 
grounds upon which to suspect you, but I wish to leave no 
stone unturned. I am having your room searched also, that 
our neighbors may not say that you may have done the 
deed, and that I am shielding you. 

Dreyfus: I fear no discovery among my possessions, 
either, but your suspicion cuts my heart more than any 
humiliation might. I longed so to gain your devotion along 
with your confidence. I tried so hard to improve upon your 
plans besides keeping inviolate your secret. What motive 

[67] 



THE ADOPTED SON 

could I have in betraying the house that gave me protec- 
tion and shelter? The thought that you think me such a 
miserable ingrate, pains me more than any fear of danger. 

La Belle : If you are guilty of no offence, Dreyfus, 
you shall not lose your place of trust or my respect and 
protection. But it remains a fact that the jewels are gone 
and only } T ou and Frank knew of their existence. Ah, here 
come the servants! (Enter servants.) 

First Servant : Here are all documents found in Frank's 
room. (La Belle takes them nervously and looks at Frank 
who remains serene.) 

Second Servant: And here are all papers found in 
Dreyfus's room. (La Belle takes them and looks at Dreyfus, 
ivho is also serene. She examines all papers.) 

La Belle (To servants,) : You may go ! 

Frank : One moment, mother ! Has every place been 
searched ? 

La Belle: Yes, and thus far I have found nothing in- 
criminating. 

Frank : But you have forgotten the desk which stands 
in this very room and which you have assigned to Dreyfus. 

La Belle: That is true. (To servants) Search that also. 

Servant (Open desk. Exclamation) : Oh ! ( All turn and 
stand aghast, including Dreyfus and Frank. Large roll of 
bills in full view.) 

La Belle (To Dreyfus) : What money is that, and how 
came it there? 

Dreyfus: I do not know. 

La Belle : Then I shall find out. (Goes to desk, takes 
out bills. Ring rolls to floor. La Belle picks it up and 
examines.) 

La Belle: Ah, Prussian's ring! And do you still deny 
knowledge of how it came there? 

[68] 



THE ADOPTED SON 

Dreyfus : Absolutely ! I am as much surprised as you 
are. I do not know how it came there. 

La Belle: Then listen to this, and bear witness all! 
(Opens letter and reads. Assimilation has moved toward 
Dreyfus and put her hand reassuringly on his shoulder.) 

La Belle (Reading) : I hereby certify that I have re- 
ceived from Dreyfus household jewels, for which I enclose 
twenty thousand francs as full payment thereof. (To Drey- 
fus sternly) What have you to say now? 

Dreyfus: Only that I do not understand. I have many 
enemies. 

Frank : So, you come into my house, and are adopted 
by my mother; you worm your way into her confidence in 
order to betray her. You have done a vile and dastardly 
deed, Judah, and you shall receive fitting reward. 

La Belle (To sei+uants) : Go ! call Prussian here. (Exit 
centre servant.) 

Dreyfus: Judah? Judah? I had almost forgotten that 
this is my real name! So, that is it? When honors are 
bestowed upon me, it must not be as to Palestine's son, but 
as the son of the household, bearing an assumed name.. 
But when I am accused of infamy, it is no longer Dreyfus 
that is accused, but Judah, the son of Palestine! Oh, you 
have done well to remind me that I am her son, Frank, 
better than you suppose. Had you accused Dreyfus in 
person, you would have broken his spirit in shame at the 
disgrace; but when you try to taint my mother's name, 
you have raised that spirit. Raised it to a height where it 
will spur me to fight to the last breath that is in me to prove 
her name clear. To clear it of the slightest taint, and to 
prove Judah innocent, Dreyfus will sacrifice himself. I am 
innocent of this great crime, and I will prove it ! 

La Belle : Enough ! Here comes Prussian. (Enter cen- 
tre Prussian. Frank glances at Mm nervously.) 

[69] 



THE ADOPTED SON 

Prussian (Bows) : You sent for me, La Belle France. 
If I can be of service to you, command me! 

La Belle : Prussian, you have in your possession the 
jewels belonging to me. Is that not so? 

Prussian : Indeed, La Belle, since they were bought with 
your approval, I thought that you were well aware of the 
matter. 

La Belle: With my permission? 

Prussian: Of which I have adequate proof through 
these letters here from your confidential servant Dreyfus. 
(Handing papers to her) Read for yourself. 

La Belle (Takes paper and reads) : Prussian, I have 
again held consulation with La Belle in the matter of selling 
you her jewels, and she has instructed me to dispose of 
them at the price you offer. If you will come to see me the 
night of the banquet, I will deliver them to you in person, 
upon payment of the agreed amount, and written acknowl- 
edgment of having received the jewels. . . . Signed, Dreyfus. 

Dreyfus: I never wrote nor signed that letter. It is a 
plot to incriminate me. 

La Belle (In commanding tone) : Not another word, 
Dreyfus ! In the face of such excruciating evidence, it will 
gain you nothing to expostulate. (To servants) Take him 
to the dungeon, disrobe him of all his finery and lock him up 
securely. You, (To second servant) remain outside and 
keep vigilant watch that he does not escape. (Servants take 
hold of Dreyfus.) 

Dreyfus: I ask a last boon! 

La Belle: I will hear it. 

Dreyfus: I crave permission to take my book with me 
into my solitude. (La Belle with a motion consents.) 

Dreyfus (Taking book): Come, little book! In you I 
shall find comfort in my solitude, and perhaps, who can tell, 
a way of solving my innocence. 

[70] 



THE ADOPTED SON 

La Belle : Away with him ! 

Servants: Come! (Dragging him. Exeunt centre serv- 
ants and Dreyfus.) 

Prussian : If you have done with me, madam, I will beg 
to retire. 

La Belle : And the jewels — 

Prussian: Are mine. Purchased and paid for in all 
due form. 

La Belle : But he was not authorized to sell them. 

Prussian: Which is no fault of mine. Adieu, Madam. 
(Bows mockingly and exits left.) 

La Belle (Walking excitedly hack and forth) : I must 
be alone. In the recess of my own room I can think more 
calmly. Let no one disturb me. (Exit La Belle centre.) 

Assimilation: I did not think that he was capable of 
such lowness. But the evidence seems complete. 

Frank (Anxiously) : But there can be no doubt in any- 
one's mind now, can there? 

Assimilation: Certianly not. That is, as matters now 
stand, and if no new developments occur. Well, I do not 
know what difference it makes to me. I have other friends. 
(Assimilation exits centre but hides behind curtain.) 

Assimilation (Aside) : But we shall see. 

Frank (Draws long breath of relief) : At last it is over, 
and everything has worked right. Now I have nothing 
further to fear, and Judah is out of the way. 

Prussian (Enter left) : Ah, Frank, I have been waiting 
to see you alone. 

Frank: Good Heavens! But we must not be seen to- 
gether. Go, quick! (Assimilation watches from behind the 
curtain.) 

Prussian : But I must speak to you. 

Frank: But not here. Someone might see us together. 

[71] 



THE ADOPTED SON 

Prussian: What of that? We have been seen together 
before. (Sits down.) 

Frank : What do you wish ? 

Prussian : Well, you see, the truth of the matter is, that 
having given you all the money I possessed I now find my- 
self in straitened circumstances, and wish merely to ask 
for a loan. Surely you could not refuse me so small a favor 
after what I have done for you. 

Frank : But you know I have not any of it. You know 
my mother has the money that you put in Judah's desk. 

Prussian: Oh, you will find a way. 

Frank : But what if I do not choose to ? Is it not enough 
that you have cheated my mother out of her jewels, without 
trying to get back the paltry amount you paid for them 
also? 

Prussian : Be careful of your choice of words, Frank, or 
your mother may learn who really cheated her out of them. 

Frank: Are you threatening me with exposure? Well, 
on what grounds could you convince her? You have already 
given your statement that Judah delivered the jewels to 
you. You could hardly contradict yourself and still expect 
to be believed. 

Prussian : You seem to forget the incriminating papers 
signed Dreyfus but written by you. True, in the excitement 
of the moment the papers were not very carefully examined, 
and I took great pains to recover them, but it is possible to 
have them re-examined, this time more thoroughly. 

Frank: You would not do that? 

Prussian: Not if I receive the loan, but otherwise — 

Frank: And what assurance have I that after I have 
complied with your request you will not demand more, 
always keeping those papers over my head? And after 
I have given you all I possess, that you will not betray me 

[72] 



THE ADOPTED SON 

in the end ? It were therefore better that you do so at once, 
before you have reduced my house to poverty. 

Prussian : Nay, I will deal fairly with you. For half 
the amount of money that I gave you, I will return to you 
the papers and you can dispose of them as you see fit. 
Well, are they worth that to you? 

Frank (Pacing) : Then bring the papers. 

Prussian : Oh, no. Bring them here and have your serv- 
ants attack me and take them from me, while you retain 
both papers and money? No, no, my friend. But you can 
come and meet me at the little hut by the cross-roads and 
we can safely make our exchange. 

Frank: Very well, I will come. Go now, in Heaven's 
name, before someone returns. 

Prussian : Adieu, my dear friend, I will see you again. 
(Prussian exits left.) 

Frank (Throwing both hands to head): Oh, I shall 
surely go mad ! What have I done ! Oh, what have I done ! 
Why could I not have foreseen his purpose? that he but 
meant to drain my house of its wealth and reduce us to 
poverty. But I was so blinded by rage and jealousy at the 
thought of Judah coming into favor that I could see 
nothing else. There is but one thing to do now, and that 
is to recover those papers. I will get two of my most 
confidential servants to go with me upon this mission and 
start out immediately. I must prepare at once. (Exit 
right Frank.) 

Assimilation (Enter centre) : So, my suspicions are 
confirmed! And do you think, Frank, that because you 
have Judah locked up you are safe? He has friends as 
well as enemies, as you evidently did not know. Now, you 
have well set a trap for yourself and you shall yourself 
give proof of your guilt in this vile plot. Ah, he is returning. 
(Assimilation hides behind curtain centre again.) 

[73] 



THE ADOPTED SON 

Frank (Enter right with two servants) : Now, each of 
you put on one of those black robes and let us be going. 
Come, give me mine. (Puts on black robe with cowl over 
face; both servants likewise. Exeunt left Frank, and 
servants.) 

Assimilation (Comes quickly out from hiding) : Good ! 
(Rings bell rope. Enter centre servant.) 

Assimilation : Go, tell La Belle that I have found a clue 
to the mystery of her stolen jewels, and that if she will 
come down at once, we may perchance recover them. (Exit 
servant centre.) I cannot wait, I am all impatience. Cour- 
age, Dreyfus! We shall yet have proofs of your innocence. 

La Belle (Enter centre) : Assimilation, what have you 
discovered ? 

Assimilation: I have heard a plot, whereby the guilty 
party of your theft is going to purchase back all incriminat- 
ing papers. Three men dressed in black robes and cowls 
have gone upon this errand and will return immediately 
with that which they wish to destroy. Get your servants 
together, place them in hiding, and leave the house in dark- 
ness. Then wait for their return and surprise them red 
handed. 

La Belle: But tell me more about this, who are those 
conspiring, how do you happen to know — 

Assimilation : There is no time now. They will be here 
directly. Let the discovery explain for itself. 

La Belle: You are right. We must waste no time. 
(Rings bell. Enter several servants.) 

La Belle : I am about to make a discovery. I wish you 
to stand around the room which I shall put in utter dark- 
ness. Nor shall you make the least sound. When I flash 
the light soon you are to seize the three men that enter in 
black robes and cowls and search them thoroughly, and take 
all papers found upon them. Now, quick, to your posi- 

[74] 



THE ADOPTED SON 

tions! (Servants take positions at sides of door at left 
and around walls at La Belle's pointing. La Belle turns 
off lights. Darkness. Perfect quiet, then footsteps ap- 
proaching.) 

La Belle (In whisper) : Now ready! (Enter three robed 
figures. La Belle turns on light in sudden flash. Servants 
seize men.) 

La Belle: And now we shall see! (La Belle pulls cowl 
off first servant, Assimilation pulls cowl off Frank, a servant 
pulls cowl off third robed figure. Assimilation snatches 
papers from Frank. Sudden gasping of surprise on both 
sides. La Belle recognizes Frank.) 

La Belle (To servants): That is all. Go! (Servants 
exeunt centre and right.) 

La Belle: What is the meaning of this? Frank, why 
do you not answer me? 

Assimilation: I will answer for him. Here are the 
letters written to Prussian and supposed to have been 
written by Dreyfus. Look closely and see if you do not 
know the writing to be another's. (La Belle takes letters 
from Assimilation. Frank draws sword from beneath his 
cloak and attempts to run it through himself, but is caught 
by Assimilation and sword wrenched from him.) 

La Belle (Screams) : My son ! 

Frank (Falling on knees before her) : Mother, Oh, my 
mother! (Sobs.) 

La Belle: Tell me all. 

Frank : I could not bear to see you become so attached 
to Judah. I feared he would win first place in your affec- 
tion, and then Prussian tempted me. Oh let me die, 
mother, I would rather die than bear the disgrace of my 
guilt exposed. 

La Belle: My own son! To betray me like this! But 
do not fear. I shall not denounce you, for to disgrace your 

[75] 



THE ADOPTED SON 

name would be only to disgrace my own. Oh, why did 
you do this? 

Assimilation: And what about Dreyfus'? You know 
now that he is innocent. 

La Belle: Yes, yes, we shall liberate him. (To serv- 
ant) Go, say that Dreyfus and his guardsman are to come 
here! (Exit centre servant.) 

La Belle: Take off these black robes and put them out 
of sight, and let no one interfere with what I say or do on 
penalty of great punishment. (Frank and remaining serv- 
ant take off robes. Servant exits right with them.) 

(Enter centre, Dreyfus and guard. Dreyfus pale, dressed 
in Judah's robe.) 

La Belle: Dreyfus, in view of your long imprisonment 
and because I choose to be lenient with you, I have decided 
to pardon you your great offence, upon condition that you 
confess your guilt publicly before my entire household and 
crave my pardon. If you show proper repentance I may 
even reinstate you in your position of trust. 

Dreyfus : Madam, I cannot confess guilt of which I 
am not guilty. 

La Belle : You know Dreyfus, there is enough evidence to 
prove your guilt before the entire town. But you will save 
yourself the mortification of public trial, longer confinement 
and ultimate punishment, by a frank confession. You have 
your choice between freedom and confinement. 

Dreyfus : I will not buy my freedom at the cost of dis- 
grace. I will have my innocence proven and proclaimed 
or you may keep me confined until I die, but you shall never 
persuade me to save my life by putting a blemish on the 
name of Judah, Palestine's son. You have my answer, now 
continue to shield your son at my expense. But you shall 
not cover up your disgrace with my innocence. 

La Belle: You have chosen! Take him back! 

[76] 



THE ADOPTED SON 

Assimilation : You know him to be innocent of this crime. 
Wherefore do you demand a confession? You ordered 
silence at the cost -of punishment. But I shall not keep 
silent. I also can take unmerited punishment rather than 
sacrifice the truth. Do not lose heart Dreyfus, I have proof 
of your innocence and I will have it proclaimed even if I 
also am locked in confinement. (Exeunt Dreyfus and guard 
centre.) Order him to be released, La Belle France, or I 
will show the remainder of these letters to all your house- 
hold and neighbors before you can dispose of me. 

La Belle : Halt, guard, come back ! (Re-enter Drey- 
fus and guard.) 

La Belle: I have thought better of the matter and in 
pure forgiveness I release you from your bondage. 

Dreyfus : I ask for no forgiveness nor do I accept it. 
There is only one way in which I will accept my freedom, 
and that is by having my entire innocence proclaimed. 

Assimilation: And I shall proclaim it! (Rings bell 
violently, all servants rush in.) See, here is that which was 
found on the three black-robed men. All these letters 
signed with Dreyfus's name, but in the writing of Frank. 
Dre3 T fus has been used as a screen to hide another's crime. 
Know all, that he is innocent, and by every law, both moral 
and judicial, is free from the long and unmerited confine- 
men that he has undergone. (Frank escapes unseen, centre.) 

La Belle (Weakly) : And to rectify the mistake I have 
made, I here before you all, not only re-instate him in his 
proper place, but raise him to the first in charge of my 
household. (Cheers from all servants. La Belle slips from 
room. Many congratidations follow. Servants exeunt one 
and tivo at a time, finally leaving Dreyfus and Assimilation 
alone.) 

Dreyfus: And, now, my friend, in what manner of 
words shall I give utterance to my gratitude? There are no 

[77] 



THE ADOPTED SON 

words adequate to express that which I feel. The name of 
Emil Zola shall live in the mind of Judah forever. 'Tis by 
that name I choose to remember you, Assimilation. 

Assimilation : I will leave you now to pleasant thoughts 
of a new freedom. (Exit centre Assimilation.) 

Dreyfus : Yes, leave me awhile, Assimilation. You have 
saved Dreyfus and have sacrificed much to do so, but Judah 
would never have been Dreyfus and in this plight had he 
not followed the advice of Assimilation. I have become 
greatly attached to you, yet I see now that your friendship 
though it may be true, is not good for me. For the best 
of friends may give wrong advice without having wrong 
intent. Yet do I not regret all this has happened, for it 
but brings me back to Judah again, and as Judah to the 
memory of my mother. The memory of my mother, whom 
I had forgotten for a space, in the admiration of another. 
Ah, France, La Belle France, how I loved you and love you 
still, in spite of all I have suffered at your hands. But 
how could I expect it to be otherwise? He is your son, not 
I, and it is but natural for a mother to forgive and shield 
her own son. There, there, again that dream, again, my 
own mother is beconing me back. (Judah sits down in same 
position as when the curtain rose, and in trance again.) 

Judah: It is such a beautiful dream, would I could 
sleep and dream forever and never wake. (Stretching out 
hands.) Mother, mother, how I need you, how I long 
for you! 

(Curtain drops.) 



[78] 



AMERICA 

Act IV — Scene 1 

(Curtain rises.) 

(Outside of home of America. House in centre, well back. 
Wide verandas all around house. Door in centre wide open. 
At extreme right, looking out to right, stands Liberty 
holding torch. At left toward back Farmer is at work. Off 
to left are seen vast fields of waving corn. In front of 
house to right stands a round table on lawn with chairs 
around it.) 

Columbia (Enter from house, stands in doorway look- 
ing around) : Nobody here ? Why where are all my chil- 
dren? (Looks in window at right) Ah, yes, there is one 
at the loom weaving. (Turns to left and spies Farmer) 
and one in the field working at the gardens. (Enter from 
right Scholar with books under arm. Goes to table and 
sitting down opens book and bends over it.) And one 
busy over his books studying. All are busy, all thrifty, 
yet this house is large enough for many more. Therefore 
I keep my door wide open all the time, that any one may 
enter when he desires. (Liberty exits slowly right.) My 
children, how I love them all! From all the houses in the 
town they come to me, to this asylum that I have founded 
for homeless orphans, and for those who seek the advantages 
of a larger home when their own become over- 
crowded. I ask no questions but receive them all alike and 
derive as much joy in their coming as they do. For, though 
childless, yet is my heart hungry for child-love, the natural 

[79] 



THE ADOPTED SON 

instinct of woman. And I have benefitted as much from 
their coming as they have. They have completely changed 
my house, both inside and outside, both materially and 
ideally. There is not another house in the town whose 
gardens are as well cultivated, or where there is more 
plenty. (Enter right Italian and Yankee; both talking 
together.) 

Yankee: It is no so; — 

Italian : But I say ; — 

Columbia (Coming down stairs): What is the trouble 1 ? 

Yankee and Italian (Together) : He says that — ( In- 
dolence comes slowly out of house rubbing his eyes and 
yawning.) 

Columbia: Just one moment, one at a time. Now 
Yankee, what is it? (Scholar and Farmer both come over 
to listen.) 

Yankee: Why, mother Columbia, Italian says that I am 
not your own son and that he was here before I was born. 

Italian : He says that he was here before I was. 

Columbia: Well, do not be excited, sit down, and I will 
explain to you. (All sit down) All my children are adopted 
ones. You have been here long, Yankee, and sometimes 
forget the time that you quarreled with your own mother, 
Angel, and then came from her house to mine. But I have 
only to call you by the name you then bore, Pilgrim, to 
bring your memory back again. 

Yankee: But was I not the first? 

Italian: Was I not here long before? 

Columbia : It is true, Italian, that you came earlier. But 
you did not remain. Having left your home merely for 
adventure, after a visit to mine, you returned to your own 
mother; and have come and gone several times since. You 
do not therefore feel as completely my child as Yankee, 

[80] 



THE ADOPTED SON 

who has never gone back to his mother since he quarreled 
with her. 

Italian : But do we not all bear your name American ? 
Have you not adopted us all as your own. 

Columbia : Yes, indeed, all those who ask my protection 
do I accept as my children. (Enter left Judah in American 
dress, arm in arm with Assimilation.) 

Columbia: See, here comes Judah, we will ask him the 
incidents of his coming here. 

Judah : Do you mean how long I have resided in your 
house, Mother Columbia 1 ? 

Columbia: Yes, and also what brought you to seek the 
shelter of my protection. 

Judah: I have been here as long as any. 

Yankee and Italian: As long as I? 

Judah : As long as either of you. In fact, I came with 
both of you, for I have come here many times. If you who 
had your own homes and mothers found it advantageous to 
change your abode, can you not realize what a refuge a 
homeless boy would find this haven? I was in your house, 
Italian, when you set out to seek new fortunes and accom- 
panied you on your travels of adventure that ultimately 
brought us to this house. I was also in your house, Pil- 
grim, when you quarreled with your mother and left her 
house. I, also wanted freedom of thought, which she 
would not grant, and left with you for this house. I have 
been in many houses in my search of a home, and left the 
barbarous house of Russia only lately, when Superstition 
falsely accused me of ritual murder, and Ignorance punished 
me for it. (Re-enter right Liberty, stands in same posi- 
tion as before.) 

Columbia: And have you found here the haven you 
sought, Judah? 

[81] 



THE ADOPTED SON 

Judah: Dearest mother, I love you more than anyone 
I have yet called by that name. When one comes to your 
house, who is the first to greet him? There, (Pointing) at 
the gate stands Liberty, welcoming all alike, homeless and 
friendless as well as wealthy and powerful. From afar 
one sees the wonderful torch of freedom that she holds 
aloft as a welcoming beacon to all. It gladdens the saddest 
heart, it gives hope to the most despondent; the light seems 
not only to enter one's vision, but enters one's heart also, 
and there rekindles the spark of hope that sometimes seems 
almost dead. For who is too great or too small to love 
Liberty ! 

Columbia: My son, your homage to my attempt at 
welcome more than repays the effort. It is my earnest en- 
deavor to promote the felicity of all those that come be- 
neath my roof. And to that purpose do I present the 
daughters whom I have adopted to the sons, that their gen- 
tle influence and love may tend toward higher ideals, and 
greater contentment. Justice also is my adopted daughter, 
as well as Liberty, and I present her to all alike. One of 
the first rules I have set myself in establishing my house 
was to the effect that all my children should be given equal 
rights. Yankee, you were present when I laid that rule. Do 
you remember its wording, and will you repeat it that all 
my children may hear? (Liberty slowly exits right.) 

Yankee (Rising) : Yes, indeed, mother Columbia. I 
wrote it down at your dictation, and I will say it that all 
the world may hear. 

Columbia: Repeat it then, and you my children, listen 
all. 

Yankee (Facing audience) : All men are created equal. 
They are endowed by the Creator with certain inalienable 
rights; among those are life, liberty, and the pursuit of 
happiness. 

[82] 



THE ADOPTED SON 

Columbia: These words express my sentiments and de- 
sires. I wish you all to have freedom of thought and ac- 
tion; that each may be allowed to follow his own pursuits 
in his own manner. And that is why I give you all a voice 
in making the rules that govern this house, rather than 
demand that you submit blindly to my authority over you. 
Now, listen, my children. I wish if possible to give an 
example of my impartiality. Do you remember one of the 
stories in Judah's book, which relates of a father who 
bestows a beautiful coat of many colors to one of his sons'? 

All: Yes, yes, we have all read it. 

Indolence: But he had twelve sons, and gave the coat 
to one. That was unjust. 

Columbia: You are right, Indolence. That story has a 
purpose and in pondering over it I have come to the con- 
clusion that it is merely an example to parents. It points 
out the jealousy caused between children by favoring one 
more than another: It shows the strife and hatred develop- 
ing from such jealousy and points out the injustice to the 
other children, when favoring one. Now, I also have a 
beautiful robe to bestow. But wishing to profit by this 
example, I intend to give each one an equal opportunity of 
winning this coat. My coat is the coat of office, and I wish 
to run a contest for its possession. Each contestant shall 
study up a lesson that I shall set and then write an essay 
on it. The best essay shall receive the award. Does this 
plan meet with the approval of you all? 

All: Yes, that is fair. 

Columbia: And do you all wish to compete? 

Farmer : I do not care for the coat of office, I have more 
important work in the field. 

Columbia: Very well, no one need compete, who does 
not wish to. (Farmer returns to his work at left.) 

[83] 



THE ADOPTED SON 

Columbia: The subject of the contest shall be on the 
law that governs this house. 

Scholar: I care not what the subject, I love my books 
and studies, 

Judah : The law ! that is my birth-right. 

Indolence: I abhor studying and working, but I love 
that beautiful coat, and it would be so very becoming to 
me too, don't you see. So I think that I will try for it, 
though the studying will be a beastly bore. (Laughs from 
other children.) 

Columbia : Now, children, no foolishness. To your books. 
I shall give you a limited time in which to work, and at 
the expiration of that time, I shall collect all essays and 
judge upon them. (Scholar at once begins looking over his 
books. Exit Columbia into house. Judah stands lost in 
thought. 

Assimilation (Goes to Judah) : Are you not going to 
compete, Judah? 

Judah: I do not know, I have not yet finished my own 
lesson. 

Assimilation : There is no hurry about your lesson. 
You can finish that later, any time you please. 

Scholar: I shall devote myself to serious work. 

Indolence (Looks off right, back) : Oh, see the boys 
playing ball, I am going to join them, and will work on my 
essay later. (Exit Indolence right back. Others laugh. 
Assimilation walks from one to the other.) 

(Curtain drops.) 



[84] 



Scene 2 

(Curtain rises.) 
(Living room. Door in centre. Bay window centre right. 
Boors to right and left. Window right, front. Bookcases 
around walls. Library tables with books discarded over it. 
All standing, talking excited. Farmer as a spectator.) 

Farmer: Who do you think has won the award? 

Scholar: It is hard to tell. Mother Columbia has col- 
lected the essays and will be in presently with her decision. 

Indolence : My essay would have been as good as any, 
if I had been given time to finish it. But it was only half- 
done when Mother Columbia collected them. I do not think 
that was fair. Everyone should have been given the op- 
portunity to finish. 

Assimilation : But, Indolence, you were given as much 
time as the others, and if you had not spent your time at 
the games, you might have finished as well as the rest. 

Indolence: Well, but one cannot study all the time. 
And yet, that coat would have looked as well on me as on 
anyone. (Judah is standing alone at left.) 

All: Ah, here comes Mother Columbia. 

Columbia (Enter centre; rolls in hands tied up, and 
robe over arm) : Sit down, all my children, and I shall tell 
you my decision. (Columbia seats herself and others group 
themselves about her.) My children, I have carefully and 
conscientiously examined these essays, and to the best of 
my ability and knowledge, have made my decision from 
merit only. You, my children, are all dear to me to the 

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THE ADOPTED SON 

same extent ; there are no greater ties to bind me to one than 
to another, and I therefore feel no partiality. There are 
many other awards to be won by those who wish to work, 
and are deserving, so that my presenting this robe to one 
need not make the rest of you feel in any way the losers. 
I therefore make my presentation before you .all, in the 
full conviction that I have been perfectly fair in my choice 
of the best essay, and have chosen by merit only. The best 
essay, and therefore the one that wins the robe, is the one 
written by, — ( All bend forward) — Judah. (Judah bends 
forward also, but does not stir.) Come forward, Judah, 
and receive your award. (Assimilation places hand on 
Judah's shoulder, and he rises slowly.) 

Prejudice: Judah has not earned the award; he has 
cheated and copied and I can prove it. 

Judah (Taking step toward Prejudice) : Prejudice ! you 
in this house also? Pray, how did you gain admittance 
into this house where Ignorance is barred? Ah, but so it is, 
the son outlives the parent. Mother Columbia, this accusa- 
tion against me is false, and I demand that Prejudice pro- 
duce proof of the guilt that he professes to know of. I de- 
mand Justice of you, you cannot deny her to me. 

Columbia : Calm yourself, Judah, you shall have Justice. 
If you are not guilty of any misdemeanor you shall receive 
that coat as has been promised. There shall be no dis- 
crimination. 

Indolence: So Judah cheated? And I was not even 
allowed to finish my essay! 

Judah : Mother Columbia, it it no longer a question of 
the award, it is now a question of honor. See, at the 
windows are all our neighbors looking on, and prepared to 
scoff or applaud as the case may be. I will have Justice, 
I ask no more. 

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THE ADOPTED SON 

Scholar : Judah is right, if he has not cheated, he should 
be given his due. I also worked hard at my essay, and 
realize the injustice of losing a well earned reward. 

Assimilation: I have been with Judah during all the 
time that he was writing and can vouch for his integrity. 
There was no cheating and he who says there was, lies ! 

Columbia : Order ! I am mistress of this house, and you 
must let me judge in this case. It is the rule of my house 
in case of dissention to call in Justice. 

Judah: Justice! Justice! it is you I am calling. Can 
you not hear me, Justice 1 ? 

Justice (From outside door at centre, behind Prejudice) : 
Who calls me? 

Judah : She answers ! It is I, Judah. You should know 
my voice by now. I have called for you so many times, 
and alas, so many times in vain. 

Justice (Appearing behind Prejudice) : Yes, yes, Judah, 
but it is not my fault that I cannot come to you. I am 
blind, and someone stands in my way. 

Judah : Yes, and it is always the same one. Prejudice ! 
See, how he bars her way. 

Columbia : Stand aside Prejudice, and let Justice enter. 
(Goes over and pushes Prejudice aside, and taking Justice 
by the hand leads her to centre of stage.) Now in your 
scales, Justice, we shall weigh the merit of these essays, for 
they are the most accurate scales in all the world. (Places 
essays one at a time in scales. Judah's weighs the most.) 
Judah's essay weighs the most in merit and honesty, and 
the coat of Office is his. (Places Justice's robe on Judah, 
then turns to others) And this is my final decision. (Exit 
Prejudice centre.) 

Judah: My mother, I thank you. You will understand 
that my love for you is not lessened by the worship of the 
mother that gave me birth. I could not be true to you, if 

[87] 



THE ADOPTED SON 

I did not uphold her name and honor. I pledge the same 
allegiance to you, and will give my very life if need be 
to protect your honor always. 

Columbia: I could neither have respected nor trusted 
you, had you done otherwise, and I know you will do credit 
to your award. I leave you with Justice. (Exit centre 
Columbia.) 

Indolence: Idiotic Prejudice! Could he not have fin- 
ished as well as he began? I shall not stay to witness 
Judah's triumph. (Exit left Indolence.) 

Scholar: Judah, I congratulate you upon your success, 
though I had hoped myself to wear that coat. However, 
there are more coats, and I shall yet have one, and again 
meet you. 

Judah: Scholar, I thank you. I know that your con- 
gratulation holds no envy, and you will surely yet win a 
brighter coat than this one, since you will have no Prejudice 
to overcome. (Exit right Scholar.) And now Assimila- 
tion must I thank you for your defence. You have per- 
haps meant to serve me, yet was our friendship a mistake. 
The mistake was mine, however, for not to you can I look 
for the solution to my problem. There is a little story in 
my book, which tells of an older son who sold his birth- 
right to his brother, for a mess of pottage. I never entirely 
understood that story until now. You see, the oldest son had 
been out hunting, and was hungry, and hunger cares not 
for blessings, which is all a birth-right gives. It wants 
pottage, and therefore he thought he was getting the bet- 
ter bargain by the exchange. But after his hunger was 
appeased, and he found that he had sold his blessing, a 
thing everlasting, then did he feel great regret. As I have 
said, I never really understood the interpretation of that 
story until now. I am the oldest son. The law is my birth- 
right. But I have been out hunting, and I have been very 

[88] 



THE ADOPTED SON 

hungry, hungry for a home, for the love of a mother, and 
for recognition. And I have been almost on the point of 
selling my birthright for a mess of pottage. I laid aside 
the Book of Law, for the Judicial law, for I thought that 
I would attain what I craved by recognition. But that is 
mere pottage; it satisfies the hunger, but have I sold my 
birth-right? No! I am going back to the Moral law. 

Assimilation : I understand that you wish to enjoy your 
success by yourself, and shall leave you to pleasant thoughts. 
(Exit centre Assimilation. Judah goes to shelf takes own 
book.) 

Judah : Ah, my little book, you are covered with dust. I 
have left you on the shelf a long time. (Opens) Yes, so 
long that I have even forgotten how to read you. The 
writing is no longer familiar, and I have become alienated 
from you. An alien to all, an alien even to myself! But 
I shall study your pages again, until you once more become 
familiar to me, for it is only through your pages that I can 
find my way back to my mother. I had forgotten that I 
was Judah in my prosperity, but my trouble sent me 
searching for my mother. That is the natural instinct of 
every human being. Some of the writing I still remember. 
Ten rules only you said I should follow, and bid my fellow- 
being follow for their own good. I had often wondered at 
the order in which those rules were placed. Thou shalt not 
covet! That rule you placed last. Now it has always 
seemed to me that if that one rule were placed first, 
there would be no need of any of the other rules. If we 
did not covet, we could not kill, we would not steal, nor 
commit adultery. And it seemed to me that the order was 
wrong. 

But I see now that I was wrong. It must come last, for it 
comes last in the natural order of things. Man could not ac- 
cept the Moral Law all in one command ; his mind is too finite. 

[89] 



THE ADOPTED SON 

It must be led up to it by natural steps, and these degrees 
must be given in decisive form, possible to be enforced by 
Judicial law. Then when the mind of man has acclimated it- 
self to these steps, it is prepared for the conception of the 
one and only law that cannot be enforced, except by itself. 
Thou shalt not covet. Then when that law will have become 
enforced on the minds of men, there will be no more need of 
the others, they will take care of themselves. And you, Jus- 
tice, will then be cured of your blindness, and will be able to 
see all alike. There will be no more bandage before your eyes, 
and no one shall again be able to stand in your path, for 
only through the minds of men can you be cured. (Taking 
Justice by the hand, turns to window right.) And there, 
there in the east, where I have turned my eyes from every 
house in all my wanderings, is the light I have so long 
looked for, and which tells me my mother lives, that it is a 
dream no longer, but a reality, and my heart yearns toward 
her, for she is calling me. And I will take you home with 
me to my mother, and you shall live with us always; and I 
will present you to all alike, to all that come within my 
doors, and will aim always for the enforcement of that law 
which shall tear the veil from before your eyes. (Song by 
Judah, Hatikvoh.) 

(Curtain falls.) 



[90] 



